Tinubu: Why I invoked spirits, won election despite cashless policy

President Bola Tinubu has explained why he invoked the spirits of Emilokan in the build up to the February 25, 2023 presidential election.

The President stated that despite the controversial cashless policy implemented by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), he was hopeful and optimistic about achieving victory in the 2023 presidential election.

Tinubu, while speaking at the palaces of the Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, in Ijebu-Ode and Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo, in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, on Thursday, June 29, said he invoked the spirits of wisdom and determination, symbolised by “Emilokan”, meaning ‘it is my turn’, to overcome the obstacles in the election.

He said: “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.

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“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.”

Tinubu stated that these spirits had been the driving force behind his service and expressed his gratitude to Oba Adetona, other traditional rulers, elected officials, particularly his friend and the Senator representing Ogun East Senatorial District, Gbenga Daniel.

The president, who thanked them for their loyalty and commitment during those crucial times in the 2023 election, described his visit to Ijebu-Ode as a homecoming.

“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 added.

President Tinubu also acknowledged the presence of Nigerian billionaire businessman, Mike Adenuga, and expressed pride in his contributions to the Nigerian economy.

In their separate remarks in their palaces, Oba Adetona and Oba Gbadebo commended Tinubu for his leadership, describing him as an instrument of God chosen to rectify past shortcomings.

They offered prayers for the president’s guidance and good health, urging Nigerians to support his administration.

The Star