“Emi lokan” is a language of freedom – President Tinubu
By Bankole Taiwo, Abeokuta
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared yesterday that his election slogan is a language of freedom.
According to Tinubu, “Emi lokan” is the spirit of freedom and who we are as a people.
Speaking at the palace of the Alake of Egba land and Awujale of Ijebu land, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo and Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona on a thank you visit to the rulers, President Tinubu who holds the traditional chieftaincy title of Aare Ago of Egbaland noted that the purpose of the visit was to thank the monarch and the people of Ogun state for their support for his administration.
Tinubu said he invoked the spirits of wisdom and determination, symbolised by “Baba Emilokan,” to overcome the obstacles in the election.
“Our monies were confiscated. The cashless policy didn’t work, it was terrible then. I realised that I came to this palace to invoke the spirit of freedom which we are noted for.
“I invoked that spirit twice. The spirit of Baba Emilokan. That’s Baba. Being blunt, being decisive, that’s him, he will tell you. The second spirit is that money or no money (we will do the election and we will win),” he said.
“The way you have taken me, the way you have responded to me, all I can say is thank you. May you live long and may you witness a prosperous Nigeria.”
He said, “And the second spirit is that money or no money, ‘A ma dibo’ (We will vote) A ma wole (We will win). Bi ko sowo (Whether there’s no money). And ever since, it’s been the spirit that’s driving me to serve.”
“You have an uncommon courage and you passed it to us. We utilised it to serve and to invoke the spirit of who we are a people, very proud and honourable people, people of great character. Our diversity for prosperity will never be forgotten,” President Tinubu declared.
The President’s entourage on the thank you visit included his Chief of Staff, Hon Femi Gbajabiamila, the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu and Special Adviser on Special Duties, Communication and Strategy, Dele Alake.
He was received by the governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, his Deputy, Engr Noimot Salako-Oyedele, former governor of the state and leader of the ruling party in the state, Chief Segun Osoba, among other dignitaries.
