In a significant show of respect, cultural allegiance, and strategic political alignment, Dr. Gbenga Adegbola, a prominent retired military Colonel and philanthropist, paid a high-profile courtesy visit to key traditional, religious, and political figures in Sakiland, in the spirit of Eid-el-Kabir celebration.
Dr. Adegbola’s visit began at the royal palace of His Royal Majesty, Oba Dr. Surv. Khalid Olabisi Ayinla Ado Ilugbemidepo, the esteemed Okere of Sakiland, where he paid homage to the monarch. The meeting, described as cordial and deeply symbolic, was marked by mutual expressions of goodwill and cultural pride.
The Okere, known for his progressive leadership and advocacy for regional development, warmly received Dr. Adegbola and expressed appreciation for his dedication to community upliftment and intellectual advocacy for the Oke Ogun region.
Following the royal engagement, Dr. Adegbola proceeded to the residence of the Chief Imam of Sakiland, Fadilat Sheikh Alh. AbdAzeez Jejekunmi Arebo, where he joined Islamic faithful in offering prayers and exchanged festive greetings to mark the 2025 Eid-el-Kabir.
The Chief Imam commended Dr. Adegbola for his respect for religious institutions and his consistent engagement with diverse faith communities across Oyo State. In his remarks, the Chief Imam emphasized the need for leaders who embody humility, knowledge, and compassion qualities he attributed to Dr. Adegbola.
The final and politically significant leg of the visit was a private consultation with Barrister AbdRaheem Shittu Adebayo, former Minister of Communications and a respected elder statesman in the region. During the meeting. Barr. Shittu made a passionate call for unity among the diverse communities of Oke Ogun, asserting that the region must rally together to produce the next governor of Oyo State in 2027.
“We can no longer afford fragmentation and passive participation in Oyo politics,” Shittu declared. “It is time for Oke Ogun to rise with one voice. Dr. Gbenga Adegbola represents a bridge between tradition and progress, intellect and grassroots wisdom. I am committed to supporting his vision as we look toward 2027.”
In his own remarks, Dr. Adegbola expressed gratitude for the warm reception he received throughout his hometown, Saki and reaffirmed his dedication to the development and political awakening of the Oke Ogun region.
“The spirit of Eid is one of sacrifice, unity, and shared hope,” he said. “As we celebrate with our people, we must also reflect on the responsibilities we carry as leaders and custodians of our future. I am committed to the vision of a united, prosperous Oke Ogun, and I am deeply humbled by the encouragement and support from our royal fathers, religious leaders, and political pathfinders like Barrister Shittu.”
