23
Apr
Apr
GASKIYA NGERI ILORIN: A TITLE BORN, A LEGACY UNCHAINED
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CapitalTimesNews / 1 month
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- 3 min read
GLAMOUR AND GRANDEUR AS ALHAJI ABDULGANIYU COOK OLODODO CROWNED FIRST-EVER *GASKIYA NGERI ILORIN* IN STAR-STUDDED CEREMONY ILORIN, KWARA STATE — The ancient city of Ilorin erupted in a blaze of color, culture, and celebration over the weekend as Alhaji Abdulganiyu Cook Olododo was turbaned as the inaugural *Gaskiya Ngeri Ilorin* (Truth of Ilorin Town) in a historic ceremony that drew Nigeria’s political elite, business moguls, and cultural icons. The dual-event spectacle, held at the revered Emir of Ilorin’s Palace and Olododo’s palatial residence, transformed the city into a hub of pomp and pageantry, proving that even a torrential downpour couldn’t dampen the spirits of attendees. A PALACE FIT FOR ROYALTYThe Emir’s Palace, a symbol of Ilorin’s rich heritage, overflowed with dignitaries as Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq led a constellation of VIPs, including Air Vice Marshals Oluwatosin Edun and Kayode Olanrewaju, NTA News Director Ayo Adewuyi, and former Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed. Traditional drummers and horsemen set the tone as Olododo, resplendent in regal white and gold *agbada*, received the revered turban—a symbolic affirmation of his integrity and lifelong service to Ilorin. The Emir, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, praised Olododo as a “beacon of truth” whose legacy would “echo through generations.” RAIN CAN’T STOP THE SHINENature’s theatrics threatened to upstage the event as heavy rains delayed proceedings, but guests rallied with umbrellas and laughter, flooding Olododo’s lavish residence for the reception. The compound, adorned in lush fabrics and floral arrangements, buzzed with excitement as attendees feasted on gourmet Nigerian delicacies and premium drinks. Yet, the true showstopper was the guests’ *patriotic flair*: in a bold departure from tradition, celebrants avoided naira mutilation by discreetly depositing cash into designated boxes—a move hailed as both classy and compliant with Central Bank directives. A LEGACY CEMENTED Olododo, a political titan who has served as Kwara State House of Assembly member, Secretary to the State Government (SSG), and Chief of Staff, was lauded as a “pillar of progress” by Governor Abdulrazaq. His dual identity as a businessman and philanthropist—founder of initiatives empowering youth and entrepreneurs—cemented his worthiness of the title. “This isn’t just an honor for me,” Olododo declared, “but for every son and daughter of Ilorin who believes in truth and community.” CARNIVAL OF UNITY From cultural troupes to live bands, the reception unfolded like a carnival, blending tradition with modernity. Guests danced into the night, their outfits—a kaleidoscope of *aso-oke*, lace, and sequins—glistening under chandeliers. The air hummed with chatter about Olododo’s historic feat, with many dubbing the event “Ilorin’s Royal Wedding.” As the festivities wound down, one truth became undeniable: Alhaji Olododo’s turbaning wasn’t just a personal triumph—it was a watershed moment for Ilorin, a city now crowned with a new custodian of its conscience. And for those who witnessed it? The memory of this rain-soaked, naira-respecting, star-lit extravaganza will linger long after the last drumbeat fades.