The Oba of Lagos, Rilwan Akiolu, has revealed that he once rejected a ₦5 million bribe during the military rule of late General Sani Abacha.
Speaking on Saturday during the celebration of his 23rd coronation anniversary, the monarch recounted that the incident happened during the detention of former Lagos State governor, Michael Otedola, under the Abacha administration.
Oba Akiolu explained that he had appealed to the authorities at the time to secure the release of Otedola’s international passport, stressing that the military government needed the support and confidence of Nigerians.
According to the monarch, shortly after the passport was released, someone approached him with ₦5 million as a gesture of appreciation, but he refused to accept the money.
He noted that his decision was guided by integrity, discipline and the fear of God.
“It is not about money. Whatever you do in life, do it with the fear of God and always pray to Him,” the monarch stated.
Reflecting on his 32 years in the Nigeria Police Force, Oba Akiolu described policing as a respected profession that must be carried out with honesty and accountability.
The Lagos monarch also called on Nigerians to continue supporting the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, expressing optimism that the ongoing economic and infrastructure reforms by the Federal Government would eventually yield positive results.
He admitted that the process may be challenging but maintained that the country would overcome its current difficulties with patience and faith.
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