(Charles Adegbite, LAGOS)
Oba of Lagos, His Royal Majesty, Oba Rilwan Osuolale Akiolu said yesterday that more oil deposits are still going to be discovered in Lagos State, which will lead to constructions of more refineries in the state.
He told Daily Sun yesterday in an exclusive interview that Nigerians have not seen anything in terms of development, and that a lot of developmental projects are going to be embarked on during the tenure of Governor Akinwunmi Ambode.
The monarch said that the refinery being built by the Dangote Group in Lagos was just the beginning of many great things to come during his reign.
He however gave conditions for constructions of refineries in Lagos and said, “My own argument is, anywhere in Lagos where you want to build these companies, apart from money, the native people must be taken into consideration.
“They must have, no matter how small, some shares in that investment, and their children must be given sound education which will make them be self sufficient That’s all” he added.
Oba Akiolu noted that Alhaji Aliko Dangote is his friend and that they could not quarrel over land matter, but that would not hinder him from telling the multibillionaire business mogul whole truth whenever the need arises.
He made it clear that it was God who in His infinite mercy chose Lagos to be a place of blessings and attraction for everybody; and that he pray to God to continue to bless the state.
The monarch however disclosed that he laughed when his state was listed as first among rich states in Nigeria because “it was only the assets of Lagos they are publicising but not mentioning the liabilities of the state.
On how he became the Oba of Lagos, the retired Assistant Inspector General of Police, AIG, said “it is God who enthrones person as kings. So you must have been destined to become a monarch by God.
“You must tell the Head and members of your royal family to get their supports, you must pray to God to let that your destiny be Fulfilled. And finally you must be a good person.” he added.
He disclosed that no matter how good a person is, when it comes to vying for vacant ppppstool, real opposition always come from one’s immediate family.
The Oba narrated how one of his own brothers made a lot of moves to block him from becoming the monarch stool became vacant and he indicated his interest.