Date: 2014-03-15

The former Sports Minister and Chairman, National Sports Commission, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, was yesterday in Ilorin, the Kwara State Capital accorded a rowdy welcome back home.

The former minister was last week relieved of his duty by President Goodluck Jonathan owing to what many Nigerians described as politicking.

As early as 8:00 am, mammoth crowd made up of APC stalwarts including well wishers gathered at the Ilorin International Airport, waiting for the arrival of one of their illustrious sons.

At exactly 12 noon, he arrived into the waiting hands of the crowd who were singing and praising him for doing the state proud at the national level.

The crowd followed him to the Emir’s Palace to pay homage to the Emir, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu Gambari who showered special prayers on him.

For the period of time the former minister was at the Emir’s Palaces, there was traffic hold-up around the Oja-Oba area. The pure water hawkers in the area made a brisk business as the joyous crowd shunned the scorching sun to dance to the melodious songs of the local musicians and later became thirsty.

The former minister there after headed for Government House, Ilorin to pay a visit to the State Governor, Alhaji Abdulfatah Ahmed, where he spoke in an emotional laden voice to express gratitude to the governor for his support.

According to him, “what else can I say today, except to say God will reward you for the love you have shown to me today”.

“In my wide imagination, I never expect a day like this will come. When I look at the crowd, I was shocked because I don’t know what I have done to deserve this.

“I thank the governor most sincerely for standing by me throughout my difficult time”.

Abdullahi who acknowledged the cordial working relationship between the state executive and the legislators, pointed out that Kwara is one of the few states that are enjoying that privilege.

In his remarks, the State Governor, Alhaji Abdulfatah Ahmed eulogized the  former minister for doing the state proud as a minister.

He explained that he had, by all standards, demonstrated that he is a man of quality, focus and target, describing him as a best Sports Minister Nigeria would ever have.

Governor Ahmed also praised the party leader in the state, Senator Bukola Saraki for his leadership style, assuring him of their loyalty at all times.

He equally expressed gratitude to the Speaker of the State House of Assembly for his support and understanding in moving the state forward.