Against the background of speculation that President Goodluck Jonathan has pledged to help rebuild the burnt palace of Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, one of his closest subjects has refuted the allegation.

In an exclusive interview with City Pulse during his 5th coronation anniversary, the incumbent Bashorun of Oyo, High Chief Yussuf Akiade Ayoola Layinka I said that aside commiserating with the Royal Father over the loss of his palace, the president never
discussed anything of such with anybody.

“I thank the media for their efforts so far. It is interesting to note here that the cause of the then fire was traced to faulty cables and not sabotage as some critics alleged. Although arrangements were made to address the electrical problems which were noticeable at the time, nobody knew it would suddenly lead to such disaster,” he said.

When prodded to talk about speculation making the round that the monarch’s visit to Aso Rock was to drum support for Jonathan’s 2015 ambition in exchange for a new ultra-modern palace, Layinka expressed shock saying there was no iota of truth in the report.

“It is true the monarch went to Aso Rock to visit the president, it has nothing to do with campaigning for him ahead of 2015 nor to ask for financial assistance to rebuild the palace. People should dissuade from making unfounded claim,” he lashed out.

He insisted as father of all, ‘Iku Baba Yeye’ will never take side with any politician.

http://www.citypulseng.com/2014/07/president-jonathan-didnt-promise-to.html