Prof. Wale Sulaiman, CON, APC Chieftain and Pro-Chancellor of the Federal University of Health Sciences, Ila Orangun (FUHSI) on Saturday sponsored a prayer session and cash empowerment initiative for victims of a tragic accident that occurred during the November 18, 2018, Ekiti/Irepodun/Isin/Oke-Ero bye-election in a moving demonstration of loyalty and commitment to party fidelity.
Prof. Sulaiman, known for his commitment to humanitarian support during the gathering held at the Ajase-Ipo Descendants Union Hall in Ajase-Ipo confirmed his commitment to bringing succour and people’s oriented support to the people.
Speaking at the presentation ceremony, Prof. Sulaiman, represented by one of his foot soldier, Comrade John Adefila, explained that the initiative was vital for supporting the households of those affected by the ugly incident.
Adefila noted that the support aligns with Prof. Sulaiman’s vision of honouring party loyalists who contributed significantly to the APC’s success in the state, even though the accident occurred before his public political involvement.
“The idea of supporting the households of those victims has become necessary because it aligns with his visions of supporting humanity and the ideology of honouring people who have put their lots to ensure the success of the victory many are enjoying today in the party,” Adefila stated.
He further stressed that this action serves to encourage party members that Prof. Sulaiman is committed to serving humanity, irrespective of holding an elective position.
Sheikh Al-Maroof Lisanu Agba of Ajase-Ipo charged political office holders to emulate the exemplary characteristics and leadership responsibility shown by Prof. Sulaiman.
The gathering featured prayer sessions led by the CAN Chairman, Ajase-Ipo, with party members and representatives of victims’ households from across Ekiti, Irepodun, Isin, and Oke-Ero LGAs in attendance.
He noted that despite the incident having nothing to do with him directly, seven years later, he still deemed it necessary to reward victims potentially forgotten by those whom the matter truly concerned.
Sheikh Al-Maroof likened Prof Wale Sulaiman to someone who has displayed in all ramifications his commitment to ensuring life remains better for the common people, admonishing the people to offer continuous support and prayers for him.
On his part, Alhaji Abdulkareem Mohammed (Alhaji Wara), a patron and elder statesman, thanked the donor for honouring the fallen heroes who paid their dues to the party.
He noted that the donor deserves the loyalty and support from the APC family when the need arises, even if he has not officially declared a political contest.
Hon. Yemi Aransiola Ojopagogo, the then Local Government Party Chairman, was emotionally moved to tears while receiving the financial support.
In his words, I was surprised that while many have forgotten the victims over the years, Prof. Sulaiman still found it fit to honour us.
Beneficiaries of the initiative with each of them presented with 100,000 naira cash includes;
1. Toyin Yusuf – Arandun Ward Ex. Officio 3
2. Olu Odebunmi Samuel – Arandun Ward Special Need 3
3. Balikis Salaudeen – Ajase Ward II, Asst. Legal Adviser
4. Representative of Femi Olaoye, Asst. Youth Leader, Samuel Olusegun Olaoye Oko Ward
5. Representative of Afolake Awolowo, Local Government Women Leader, Olushola Olaitan Arandun Ward
6. Kafayat Kazeem, Welfare Directress Omu-aran Ward III
7. Gbenga Adeyemi, Asst. Treasurer Omu-aran Ward I
8. Representative of Chief Adekeye, Auditor, Kemi Adekanye Ajase Ward II
9. Azeez Aderibigbe, Ex. Officio 2 Omu-aran Ward II
10. Samuel Adewara, Asst. P.R.O
11. Oke Sulaiman, Asst. Auditor Omu-aran Ward III
12. Yemi Aransiola Local Government Party Chairman, Omu-aran Ward II
13. Representative of the Driver Ayisat Aminu Tiamiyu Raliat
14. Oparemi Samuel Omu-aran ward I, Organizing Secretary
One of the beneficiaries, who also spoke on behalf of others, expressed her gratitude to Prof Wale Sulaiman for his support.
“We’re giving big thanks to Prof Wale Suleiman for his thoughtful decision for this support on behalf of our late people during the 2018 bye election accident” she said, praying that Allah continues to guide him and his family.
“I don’t have much to say but let’s put our hands together and pray for him and then anytime he declares any agenda let’s support him because he has been there for us.” She added.
The gathering featured prayer sessions led by the CAN Chairman, Ajase-Ipo, with party members and representatives of victims’ households from across Ekiti, Irepodun, Isin, and Oke-Ero LGAs in attendance.
