Sanwo-Olu congratulates Oniru as monarch celebrates 50th birthday quietly

Oniru of Iruland Oba AbdulWasiu Lawal

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has congratulated the Oniru of Iruland Oba AbdulWasiu Lawal on his 50th birthday celebration.

The monarch has, however, banned well-wishers from paying him courtesy, opting to celebrate quietly because of coronavirus.

Mr Sanwo-Olu in a statement by his spokesman Gboyega Akosile described Oba Lawal, the immediate past commissioner for agriculture, as a seasoned administrator who has used his knowledge and experience to bring about agricultural revolution in the state.

The governor added that Lawal, during his tenure as commissioner in different ministries between 2009 and 2020 displayed high degree of honesty, dedication and professionalism to service in the public sector, contributing his quota to the growth and development of Lagos State.

He said the traditional ruler, who retired voluntarily as a superintendent of police in 2000, left the force with impeccable records, exhibiting the true spirit of royalty in him.

“On behalf of my family and the good people of Lagos State, I wish you a happy birthday and pray that the Almighty God continues to bestow on your Majesty, wisdom for a continuous reign of peace, prosperity and love in Iruland.

“May you witness many more fruitful years and decades on the throne of your forefathers for the continuous service to humanity,” Sanwo-Olu told the monarch.

Private secretary to the Oniru Hakeem Akintoye had said in a statement on Thursday in Lagos that the monarch advised well-wishers to join him in prayers from their homes

“In line with recent development and state restrictions on public gathering due to the COVID-19 pandemic, well-wishers are advised to refrain from paying courtesy visits to the palace.

“Rather, they are advised to join Oba Lawal in prayers from their homes,” Mr Akintoye said.