Oba Akiolu

Oba of Lagos,  Rilwan Akiolu, who generated a lot of controversy during the 2015 general elections by declaring his political preferences, has sounded a note of advice to Nigerians. He has admonished Nigerians not to take sides with politicians or make enemies because of them. He says politicians  always have a way of settling their differences behind closed doors.

A statement released on Tuesday by his media aide said the Oba gave the advice while speaking at an event to mark the 60th birthday of Mrs. Folashade Ashafa, wife of Senator Gbenga Ashafa, the senator representing Lagos East Senatorial District at the National Assembly. Said the statement:

“His Imperial Majesty said while people would take sides with politicians and develop enmity and grudges for supporters of rival parties, the politicians never take their differences personal and always know how to reconcile behind closed doors.

“He therefore, advised all Nigerians to learn how to allow politicians settle their differences without interference or unnecessary sensationalisation of issues.” .

Among the dignitaries present at the event held at the Grand View, Magodo, Lagos, were Gbenga Makanjuola, Deputy Chief of Staff to the Senate President who represented his principal, Minister of Power, Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola and Senator Musiliu Obanikoro, a former Minister of Defence.

Others were Otun Are of Lagos, Demola Seriki, Wasiu Sanni Eshinlokun, the Deputy Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly and Mr. Durosinmi Etti, the Lagos State Commissioner for Wealth Creation.