By Qudirat Hakeem-Apanpa
Sheikh Mohammad Robiu Adebayo, a prominent Muslim scholar popularly known as Baba Loworo, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the ongoing Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road project.
The Islamic cleric described the initiative as a significant infrastructural intervention that could provide relief to Lagos and other areas of Nigeria.
Sheikh Adebayo expressed his commendation during a Moulid Nabiyy celebration held in Lagos on Sunday, organised by the Lutfullahi Muslim Organisation Worldwide.
The Islamic cleric urged Nigerians to recognise and appreciate what he termed the positive efforts of the Tinubu administration.
He noted that, although the coastal road project was still under construction, its impact and potential benefits were already becoming apparent.
In his view, the road project represents an ambitious development initiative deserving of encouragement and public support.
He recounted witnessing a similar unique road channel in California during the 1960s, asserting that the scale and vision of the current project should instil pride in Nigerians.
Sheikh Adebayo characterised President Tinubu as a source of pride for the Yoruba people and Nigeria as a whole.
He emphasised the importance of encouraging the President to further benefit the country and its citizens.
“I do not see him and his team as bad leaders. Even though they might not have been able to take Nigeria to where we all want it to be, they are working hard to ensure a better country,” he stated.
The cleric stressed that his remarks were not politically motivated, clarifying that he was neither campaigning for the President nor seeking personal favours, but simply expressing what he believes to be the truth.
“I am not campaigning for him; I am advocating the means for truth,” he asserted.
Baba Loworo, who has resided in Lagos since 1948, referred to Tinubu as a “good ambassador of the Yoruba race” and a “pride of the Yoruba nation.”
He encouraged Nigerians to acknowledge the administration’s achievements while constructively demanding more.
“He may not be doing less than what people expect, but we should appreciate what he is doing and ensure that we support him.”
The nonagenarian reiterated that his commendation was based on sincerity rather than political affiliation or expectations of personal gain.
“If I am praising anyone, I do it based on truth and sincerity. I don’t go to politicians or seek favours from them. God will not allow those who want to spoil his efforts and good work through envy and chaos to succeed,” he said.
The cleric cautioned against actions or tendencies that could undermine national development, asserting that those genuinely committed to the country’s success would ultimately be rewarded.
Baba Loworo also called for increased support for President Tinubu’s efforts to promote peace and development throughout the nation, emphasising that Nigerians share a collective responsibility to contribute to national progress.
“Anyone who seeks retrogression for this government is an enemy of this country,” he declared.
The cleric, who described himself as a contented Islamic scholar with no need to seek favours at the age of 90, stated that his intervention stemmed from a desire to witness Nigeria’s progress.
He offered prayers for President Tinubu and his wife, wishing them good health, long life, and peace of mind, while also hoping that their efforts towards Nigeria’s advancement would yield positive outcomes.
He urged Nigerians to transcend political differences and support initiatives that could foster the country’s infrastructural development, economic growth, and peaceful coexistence.
