Ondo state governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, on Saturday, graced the 90th birthday celebration of Grand Chief Imam of Owo, Alhaji Sheik Ahmad Aladesawe, with whom he shares a robust relationship.
The event, which was well attended by Grand Chief Imams, Chief Imams, prominent Islamic scholars across the country and eminent Nigerians, took place at the Oba Sir Olateru Olagbegi Civic center in Owo.
The governor, who was represented by his deputy, Olayide Adelami, thanked Sheik Aladesawe for his selfless service to the people of Ondo state in particular, and Nigeria at large.
“Our dear baba, we want to appreciate you for always standing up for what is just” the governor remarked, as he continued to pay glowing tribute to the nonagenarian.
The governor also appreciated Sheik Aladesawe for his support for the state government at all times, asking for God’s strength for the Islamic leader.
“Baba Aladesawe is not just a muslim leader but a father figure to many people across diverse faith, culture and ethnicity” He said.
In addition to his role as the Grand Chief Imam of Owo, Alhaji Aladesawe is currently the Chairman, League of Imams and Alfas in Ondo state, Secretary General, League of Imams and Alfas in Yoruba Land, Edo and Delta states.
Remarking, Chairman of the occasion and retired Lagos high court judge, Hon. Justice Adesuyi Olateru-Olagbegi, extolled the virtues of the Grand Chief Imam.
He said the fact that Sheik Aladesawe’s late father was a highly respected Chief Imam did not automatically qualify him to be one but that he had long prepared himself in learning and character for the exalted position.
Olateru-Olagbegi acknowledged the progress made so far in ensuring unity is restored to Owo kingdom, commending the deputy governor for steering the process.
John Paul Akinduro,
Spokesperson to Ondo State Deputy Governor
August 18, 2024