Royalty is indeed sweet, the respect, allure and grand opulence that comes with it soothes the heart but royalty is innate. Former Governor of Kano State Dr. Abdulahai Ganduje might have relieved him of his Emir position but the blue blood in his veins still flows with much ado. Former Emir Sanusi Lamido Sanusi still commands much respect among all sundry. The reason he is being accorded that much respect even when he ceases to be the emir of ancient Kano Emirate still raises concern as his influence keeps looming large like wildfire. To some, his dethronement is politically motivated while some are indifferent but in all, he was a crusader for good governance and also spoke against the ills militating against the attainment of a just society.

When he was dethroned in March 2020, it didn’t come as a shock to many as he has been facing a battle with the governor of the state. The story went around the nooks and crannies of the state and beyond as he was asked to leave the state to allow the enthronement of a new emir. The former Governor of Central Bank was unperturbed and unruffled that he calmed his supporters as he told them to desist from any form of violence and shun destruction as he pleaded with them to accept it as a wish from the almighty. He left immediately and relocated to Nasarawa state.

Years after his dethronement saga, his popularity has transcended the shores of Nigeria more and Nigerians accorded him more respect like the Emir. Any functions he graces, his entrance is always grand with a display of royal opulence. He still proves the popular axiom; ‘Kings were born not made’ right. The royalty in him keeps oozing out at every point. His royal entourage and presence can hardly go unnoticed. Since his removal, he has always had a very good outing. Apart from being involved in the political stability of Nigeria and Africa; there is one thing he loves so much; he is a man who loves education and has openly advocated for it. He is of the opinion that education is the bedrock of development in any country that’s why he has openly criticised the government on the need to educate children in Northern Nigeria. Apart from that he made his family a perfect example with the mandate that all of them must get a university degree and also must pass in flying colours. Almost all of his children have graduated with a minimum of master’s degree in their various fields. In order to challenge his children on the need that education is a continuous process; he has also enrolled for a PhD in Economics at a University in the United Kingdom. Sources say he is using his part-time to invest in education earning a doctorate and by chance completing teaching as a part-time lecturer at the university. He has always been a teacher so bagging a PhD is a motivation for his children and it will also see him share his repertoire of knowledge in his chosen field.

 

Senator Patrick Ifeanyi Ubah remains the proverbial cat with nine lives. In several attempts to cut him down, he has over-conquered his enemies both politically and in Business. Since his foray into the murky waters of politics, one thing was constant for him, his ability to bring about the much-needed change to his people and give them the dividend of democracy at all costs. In the run-up to the 2023 general elections, his detractors thought he was never going to win his re-election but the Nnewi-born Capital Oil boss showed that he has indeed come of age as a politician and gathered the much-needed experience. 

 

After his victory at the 2019 and 2023 Anambra South Senatorial Election with his moribund Young Progressive Party YPP, He singlehandedly broke the Andy and Chris Uba brother’s stronghold in Anambra South Senatorial district as he gave them a run for their money crashing their winning streak in the district spanning into years. He has since prioritized his people as he has invested heavily in security, health, education, road rehabilitation, bill sponsoring, women and youth empowerment and lots more. Today, in his quest to end the weekly Sit-At-Home order in his senatorial district which is affecting trade and commercial activities;  Ubah is at loggerheads with some forces not minding whose Ox is gored but has remained firm in his decision to liberate his people.

While the seasoned businessman and politician celebrates his 52nd Birthday on the 3rd of September with no fanfare, many thought it was going to be the usual jamboree. On his birthday this year, he took time to reflect on redolent memories in the run-up to the 2023 general election when he was ambushed in Anambra state by unknown Gunmen, killing over 8 of his escorts and personal aides. That day was indeed a Black Sunday for him as his life flashed before his very eyes. He was said to have cried profusely like a baby. In celebration of his 52nd birthday, he used the opportunity to remember those who died in the ugly incident. Those close to him said he was almost moved to tears while remembering and narrating his ordeal to people around him. He was said to have offered prayers for the deceased while also reiterating his commitment to taking care of the children and family of the deceased. 

 

In Yoruba land; one of the few monarchs well loved and respected by all sundry is Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo the Alake of Egba Land. Some claimed his affable nature and his deep-rooted knowledge of the customs, culture and tradition of Yoruba people and of Egba land seems to be one of the reasons he is revered. Some claimed his lifestyle as one King who does not associate himself with pettiness and also not economical with the truth. Many see him as an epitome of royalty for his fearlessness and uncommon tenacity.

 

Since his ascension to the throne of his forebears in 2005, he has ensured that development ensued in his immediate environment using his goodwill and clout to ensure a major transformation project is facilitated in his kingdom. Apart from this he has thrown his door open to everyone and also proffers solutions to problems within his capacity and has also been a father to all. Today, the former Military officer has constantly called for the unity of Nigeria and also preached peace at every opportunity.

Alake loves to be celebrated all the time. Yes, for a Monarch of his magnitude who is selfless, he also deserves to be celebrated to the high heavens so more reason he does not joke with his birthday. As the monarch will celebrate his 80th birthday on the 14^th of September, joining the leagues of Octogenarians, Sons and daughters of Egba land have started to celebrate his Imperial Majesty who originally would have travelled for his annual holiday abroad.

 In celebration of His birthday, not less than 3000 people will benefit from free medical care, including eye surgeries, as part of the one-week programme lined up to celebrate the paramount ruler. A source disclosed that; celebrations would kick off on Friday, 8th of September, with conferment of chieftaincy titles on distinguished sons and daughters of Egbaland; followed by the provision of free medical services for two days.

“On the 14th of September, there would be an interdenominational service at the Cathedral Church of St Peters, Ake, Abeokuta; after which a grand reception and book launch would be held in honour of the paramount ruler. Oba Gbadebo would then draw the curtain on the historical celebration by laying the foundation for the new Abeokuta City Hall, a project that is being done in preparation for the celebration of 200 years of Abeokuta’s existence in 2030.” A source added.