After acrimonious political battle for Ilorin senatorial seat, a former Minister of Sports, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi and the Turaki of Ilorin, Mallam Saliu Mustapha have reconciled at a book presentation in Ilorin.

The two personalities were senatorial candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party(PDP) and the All Progressives Congress(APC) when they engaged a bitter political rivalry that compelled the
National President of Ilorin Emirate Descendants Progressive Union(IEDPU), Alhaji Aliyu Otta Uthman to wade in.

Though Mustapha later won the election the two politicians were sighted in a warmth embrace at the unveiling of a new book, “Ilorin Emirate Frontliners” authored by National Secretary of IEDPU, Mallam Abubakar Imam.

Senator Mustapha who donated N10m for the copies of the book said he had the honour of sharing the stage with distinguished individuals who, like myself, were devoted to preserving the intellectual history and cultural heritage of the Ilorin Emirate.

He said the book not only showcases remarkable literary talent but also provides an incisive and thorough overview of the prominent personalities who have played pivotal roles in the development and prosperity of the Ilorin Emirate.

He expressed his commitment to further promote the book by transforming it into a documentary for global distribution and audio versions to be featured on popular radio programmes.

Vice President Third-Estate, Barrister Hakeem Mustapha (SAN) who donated N2m for the book also commended the efforts of the author for the historic literary work.

Over N20m was realised on the spot during the unveiling of the book that was reviewed by Professor Suleiman Ambali.

Some of the dignitaries that graced the occasion and donated generously included Professor Oba Abdulraheem, Hon Moshood Mustapha, Waziri Yakubu Gobir and former Environment Minister, Hajiya Halima Alao among others.

PRNigeria reports that the book is a biographical compendium of leading indigenes and notable residents of Ilorin Emirate.

According to the author, the book was an attempt at documenting, preserving and celebrating the careers, achievements and contributions of over 300 distinguished indigenes and residents of Ilorin Emirate.

Mallam Imam, who is also the Deputy Editor of UNILORIN BULLETIN, the official weekly news publication of the University of Ilorin, said that his decision on the book project was encouraged by the need to preserve the pedigrees and contributions of selected accomplished indigenes of Ilorin Emirate for the younger and future generations to emulate.

He told PRNigeria that the work is equally intended at establishing the contributions of Ilorin Emirate to national and human development for posterity.