A former President of Nigeria, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo has written a letter to the natives of Ikare-Akoko, Ondo State, condoling with them on the transition of their monarch, the Owa-Ale of Ikare-Akoko Kingdom, the late Oba Samuel Kolapo Adegbite-Adedoyin.
In a letter addressed to the Regent of the kingdom, Princess Aderinsola Adegbite-Adedoyin, a copy of which was made available to newsmen in the state, Chief Obasanjo expressed his heartfelt condolences to the Regent, traditional chiefs and natives of Ikare-Akoko kingdom.
The former President reeled out the qualities and impacts of the late monarch on his society and the nation at large through his throne and the legal profession.
Chief Obasanjo said: “The late Owa-Ale of Ikare-Akoko Kingdom will be remembered as a patriot and custodian of our cultural and traditional values, who gave his best while on the throne of his forefathers.
“His contributions to the political, social and economic life of lkare-Akoko Kingdom, Ondo State will remain indelible in the hearts and minds of those who had interacted with him in politics and in socio-economic life.
“He left an indelible mark and epitomised the qualities of an eminent legal practitioner on the Nigerian legal plane and the administration of justice, using his knowledge and skull to serve God, his people and government in various capacities notably as a member of the Committee for the Creation of Ondo State; Lay President of the African Church Worldwide: and President, Council of Crowned Obas of Ondo State, a position he held till his transition.
Pix: copy of Chief Obasanjo’s letter.
“Our revered Oba brought his salutary Influence to sue for peace, understanding and development in lkare-Akoko community in particular and the entire Ondo State in general throughout his 48 impactful years on the throne of his forefathers.”
The former president, however, lamented that the monarch departed when his advice was needed to save the nation in its present crucial state.
“Although Oba Samuel Kolapo Adegbite-Adedoyin’s passage is like a dream, especially as he left us at a crucial state in our nation’s history when his wise counsel and rich experience are greatly needed,” Chief Obasanjo said.
He, therefore, urged “the Chiefs of lkare-Akoko Kingdom, the entire lkare-Akoko community and all the members of his immediate and extended family to take solace in the worthy legacy and his mark on the history of this country he left behind.
“I pray that God Almighty shall grant all of you the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss. May the gentle soul of the dear departed rest in perfect peace.”