By Benny News Hub | Ibadan
His Imperial Majesty, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Senator Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, Arusa I
, on Thursday received Captain Olatunji Emmanuel Okedeyi at the Olubadan Palace in Ibadan following his remarkable bicycle expedition from London to Lagos in support of the global campaign to eradicate polio.
Captain Okedeyi, an indigene of Ibadan, completed the over 10,000-kilometre journey after cycling across several countries, using the expedition to raise awareness about the need to sustain the fight against polio worldwide.
The monarch, who was visibly delighted to receive the cyclist, commended his resilience, patriotism and humanitarian spirit. In a show of support for the noble cause, the Olubadan announced a donation of £1,000 towards the anti-polio campaign championed by Captain Okedeyi.
Speaking during the reception, the Olubadan remarked that the welcome accorded the cyclist should have begun from the Ibadan Toll Gate, describing the achievement as one deserving of a grand civic reception from the moment he entered the ancient city.
During his interaction with guests, Captain Okedeyi recounted some of the challenges he encountered on the transcontinental expedition. He revealed that at one point, poor network connectivity left him out of contact with the team monitoring his journey for two days, creating anxious moments for those tracking his progress.
Despite the challenges, he remained committed to completing the mission, arriving in Nigeria after traversing Europe and West Africa on a bicycle.
The reception attracted traditional title holders, community leaders, members of Ibadan socio-cultural organisations and admirers who gathered to celebrate one of the city's sons for projecting the name of Ibadan on the global stage while advancing a humanitarian cause.
Captain Okedeyi's feat has been widely described as a powerful demonstration of courage, endurance and selfless service, reinforcing Ibadan's reputation for producing men and women of exceptional character and determination.
His successful expedition adds another remarkable chapter to the rich history of Ibadan, a city renowned for raising individuals whose impact extends far beyond its borders.
