The Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu, has declared that former Vice President Atiku Abubakar will never become Nigeria’s president, stating that destiny does not favour his political ambition.
The monarch made the remark during a media interaction at his Iga Iduganran Palace in Lagos as part of events marking his 82nd birthday and 22 years on the throne.
According to Oba Akiolu, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s rise to power was divinely orchestrated, and Nigerians should rally behind him to achieve his vision for the country.
“The future belongs to God, but let me say it plainly: former Vice President Atiku Abubakar will never be President of Nigeria. Tinubu is compassionate and visionary. Who would have believed he’d become president? He presented his certificate to me first after winning. Lagosians and Nigerians should support him to fulfil God’s purpose for the country,” the Oba stated.
Reflecting on his long-standing relationship with the president, Akiolu revealed that he had foreseen Tinubu’s presidency as far back as 2003, shortly after his coronation.
“I’m not a politician, but I always tell them that politicians don’t fight; they only disagree. God deliberately chose Bola Ahmed Tinubu for Nigeria. On May 23, 2003, the day I received my certificate of office, I told God that Tinubu would one day be president. He made Lagos proud and will complete his term by God’s grace,” he said.
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Turning to the development challenges in Lagos, the monarch reiterated his call for Lagos to be granted special status, citing the immense infrastructural pressure on the state.
“Lagos is blessed. If you come here poor, your condition can change for the better. But the strain on infrastructure is enormous. That’s why I’ve consistently asked for Lagos to be given special status. In 1956, Oba Adeniji Adele wrote to the British Colonial Secretary on this same issue. Giving Lagos federal recognition is long overdue,” he added.
Oba Akiolu concluded by urging continued peace, unity, and support for national progress, emphasizing that while leadership changes, only God determines the future.