-
As President Celebrates Cleric’s 90th Birthday
- Safiu Kehinde
President Bola Tinubu has reportedly gifted the Chief Imam of Ibadanland, Sheikh Abdul-Ganiyy Agbotomokekere, a brand-new Toyota Land Cruiser Prado.
This was disclosed in a post shared on X on Sunday.
According to the post, the President had gifted the prominent Islamic cleric the Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) in recognition of his spiritual leadership and contribution to peace and religious harmony in Oyo State.
The vehicle was delivered to the Chief Imam yesterday by the senator representing Oyo Central Senatorial district, Dr Yunus Akintunde.
While the development had sparked mixed reactions from members of the public, Tinubu’s gesture appeared to have also be in celebration of the Imam’s 90th birthday.
The President had in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, felicitated with Agbotomokekere who also doubled as the Grand Imam of Oyo State and Grand Patron of the League of Imams and Alfas of Yorubaland, Edo, and Delta States.
Tinubu had in the statement extolled Sheikh Agbotomokekere for his exemplary life of uprightness, humility, and steadfast devotion to the service of Allah and humanity.
He described the cleric as a custodian of Islamic values and the teacher of teachers who has devoted his life to promoting peace and unity for decades.
As quoted by Onanuga, Tinubu lauded the Chief Imam’s outstanding spiritual guidance and leadership.
“His commitment to interfaith harmony in Nigeria is a beacon to all.
“The Muslim Ummah, and indeed the nation, are indebted to him for his wise teachings, insightful sermons, and dedication to educating the next generation in line with the teachings of the Holy Quran”, the President said.
Tinubu joined the Muslim Ummah in praying that the Sheikh will live many years in good health, joy, and a sound mind.