?By MUHYIDEEN JIMOH

President Bola Tinubu has credited his rise to the presidency to the blessings of the late Awujale of Ijebu, Oba Sikiru Adetona, and Nigerians.

?Tinubu spoke on Sunday during the eighth-day Fidau prayer for the late monarch at Dipo Dina Stadium in Ijebu Ode, Ogun.

?The president paid heartfelt tributes celebrating Adetona’s impactful reign, leadership and enduring legacy.

??“Today marks a very great day in the history of Nigeria and particular history of the Yoruba race.

??“I thank God Almighty that I stand before you as the president of Nigeria.

“Our history would not have been completed if I failed the last election.

??“I was successful because of your support and the blessing of the late Awujale.

??“I came to him and he blessed me and he said you will win that election and you will win another one.

“Today, he’s no more,” an emotional president said.

??Tinubu described Adetona as a revered ruler who brought dignity and pride to both Ijebu land and the Yoruba nation.

??He recalled the monarch’s unwavering support during the pro-democracy June 12 struggle.

??The president urged Nigerians to uphold his legacy by fostering unity, peace and national cohesion.

??Earlier, Gov. Dapo Abiodun of Ogun described Adetona as more than a monarch but a mentor and moral compass to the nation.

??“Under Oba Adetona’s leadership, Ijebu land witnessed unprecedented leadership.

“Kabiyesi upheld the dignity of Ijebu culture and upheld the dignity of the Yoruba race; his reign brought prestige to our land,” he said.

??Tinubu was joined at the Fidau prayers by governors, ministers and senior officials led by Nigeria Governors’ Forum Chairman, Gov. Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq of Kwara. (NAN)