The Ooni of Ife, Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, has hailed President Bola Tinubu for implementing economic reforms and stabilising the country’s economy.

A statement on Thursday by Sodiq Lawal, the monarch’s spokesperson, said the traditional ruler made the remark while receiving Ahmed Usman Ododo and Monday Okpebholo, governors of Kogi and Edo States, respectively, at the monarch’s palace in Ile-Ife.

Mr Ogunwusi described the visiting governors as distinguished, humble and exemplary public servants among their contemporaries.

“You are welcome to the source of the Yoruba race. We are delighted to receive both of you. Your humility and simplicity are rare among today’s political leaders. Beyond politics, you have come here as men who embody the Omoluabi virtues, and we are proud to receive you,” the monarch said.

Commenting on the state of the nation’s economy, the monarch said Mr Tinubu’s bold and tough policies aimed at repositioning the country have begun to create positive impacts and are evident in key economic indicators.

The monarch said the variables of impact include growth in the country’s foreign reserves, a rise in crude oil production and an unprecedented performance in the capital market.

Mr Ogunwusi stated, “Economically, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is trying. We must acknowledge the courage it took to implement some of these reforms.

“Today, Nigeria’s macroeconomic indicators are improving. Our foreign reserves have risen to about $52 billion, crude oil production is approaching two million barrels per day, and the capital market is performing remarkably well.

“These achievements did not come by accident. They are products of deliberate reforms aimed at repositioning the Nigerian economy.”

The traditional ruler stated that the next step is to ensure that the benefits of the economic reforms undertaken by the president reach ordinary Nigerians at the grassroots.

The monarch, who also expressed concern over the political tension ahead of the August 15 governorship election in the state, warned politicians against violence.

“The political tension in Osun State is becoming too much, and we are all feeling it. Nobody is stopping anyone from campaigning or supporting a political party, but politics must never lead to violence.

“As traditional rulers, we will continue to preach peace because our responsibility goes beyond politics. We want peace in Ifeland, peace across Osun State and peaceful elections.”

“Power belongs to the people. It is not by force and not by violence. Let everyone remain calm, respect the democratic process and allow the people to freely choose their leaders,” he said. 

In his address on behalf of the governors, Mr Ododo explained that the visit was to seek the royal blessings of the monarch and thank him for his role in promoting peace, national unity and good governance.

The governor said, “We have come home to appreciate Your Imperial Majesty for all you have been doing for our country. Your leadership, service to humanity and commitment to peace have inspired many of us. You remain a role model to leaders across Nigeria.”

He explained that the governors were in the state to sensitise residents on the policies and reforms Mr Tinubu’s administration had embarked on and to encourage political participation.

The governor, who acknowledged that Mr Tinubu’s reforms came with difficulty, said there have been positive results across the country.

“President Tinubu took bold decisions, including the removal of fuel subsidy, in the interest of the nation’s future.

“Today, states receive improved allocations, salaries are being paid more consistently, investments in agriculture have increased, healthcare facilities across the 774 local government areas are being upgraded, road infrastructure is receiving attention and Nigerian farmers are becoming more productive,” he said.

The governor appealed to political leaders and stakeholders in the state not to relent in supporting Mr Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and to equally ensure that peace remained a priority before, during and after the election.