Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, says Ibeju-Lekki is thriving as a result of the prophetic utterances of the Premier of old Western Region, Chief Obafemi Awolowo.

This was contained in statement issued by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Gboyega Akosile on Sunday evening.

Sanwo-Olu who was enthralled after watching a stage musical drama performance titled ‘Awo: The Man, His Jewel And…’ produced by The Duke of Shomolu, a theatre company run by Joseph Edgar.

The drama which took place at Glover Memorial Hall, Lagos Island, showcased the political life and times of the late sage and his wife, Chief (Mrs) Hannah Dideolu Awolowo, who the late sage himself described as ‘Jewel of inestimable value.’

Sanwo-Olu emphasised that the uniqueness in the drama presented about Awo evokes memory of Ibeju- Lekki where Awolowo was incarcerated.

The governor noted that the premier of Western Region was compelled to bless the community and envisioned that it would rise to be an admirable settlement, a statement he claimed had come to reality.

In attendance were Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo; his wife, Dolapo; Speaker, House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila; former Governors of Ogun State, Aremo Olusegun Osoba and Otunba Gbenga Daniel among others.

According to Sanwo-Olu, one of the lessons from the theatre is the story about Lagos and more importantly the story about Ibeju-Lekki, where Awolowo was incarcerated for many months.

“For those who do not know, or have forgotten, Papa (Awolowo) was incarcerated in Lekki Town, Ibeju-Lekki, and he made prophetic utterances that the place will flourish, do well and be prosperous. Well, those prayers have continued to prosper the town.

“Ibeju-Lekki today is the most talked about in real estate and property development. Should we even mention the refineries, petrochemical plants, sea ports, among others? There is no other place we can talk about in Nigeria now like Ibeju-Lekki, particularly Lekki town. Papa Awolowo’s blessings have come true upon that town,” he said.

The governor said the play further showcased those who stood their grounds and brought the conversation about a united Nigeria to the front burner.

He said: “This story is also important, especially for the younger generation who wouldn’t have the opportunity to understand and reflect back on what life was like in the days of Awolowo, our fathers and grandfathers. It is very easy for us to push history behind, but this play has told us about those who stood their grounds in the conversation for Nigeria.

“When we hear about Awolowo, some people might not be able to put it in proper perspective, but those who have watched this musical show tonight can begin to connect that indeed these were great men who helped to shape the narrative of this country.

“That is why all of us must hold on tightly to ensure Nigeria remains one, despite its ups and downs. We need to hold ourselves in these difficult times with the assurance that we will weather the storm together and come out stronger and better.”

Sanwo-Olu said he was excited to see the past glory of Glover Memorial Hall being brought back.