Dapo Abiodun, Ogun State governor, has urged traditional rulers in the state to be mindful of what they say and the people they honour with chieftaincy titles not to bring the royal institution into disrepute.
The governor gave the charge yesterday, at the inauguration of the Akarigbo and paramount ruler of Remoland, Oba Babatunde Ajayi, as Chairman, Ogun State Council of Obas, held at the Obas’ Complex Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.
Abiodun said as embodiment of royalty, traditional rulers should not engage in activities that would jeopardise the revered institution.
He stressed that it is important for royal fathers to be weary of their utterances and association, as what they say or do would have deep meanings and implications in the political and social economic atmosphere, especially as the nation inches towards 2023 general elections.
He, however, urged the royal fathers to use their sacred offices to engender a more peaceful atmosphere for the successful conduct of 2023 general elections and the continued development of the state.
Earlier in his address, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Afolabi Afuape, noted that the calls for the upgrade of Baales to Coronet Obas would not be entertained until the determination of the court case instituted by 75 Obas challenging the revocation of their appointments.
In his speech, the outgoing Chairman, Oba Sikiru Adetona, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mr. Kolawole Fagbohun, appreciated the governor for the confidence reposed in him, saying that the Council’s engagement with the state government led to the establishment of Amotekun Corps and community policing, which has enhanced security at the grassroots.
In his acceptance speech, the new Chairman of the Council, Oba Ajayi pointed out that traditional rulers were not to play opposition, but partners in progress, stressing that it was imperative for government to take into consideration the viewpoints of traditional rulers when formulating policies and programmes.
