Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has urged traditional rulers across Nigeria, especially in the Southwest, to make peace and grassroots development top priorities in their communities.
He made the call on Tuesday during the installation and presentation of staff of office to the new Odemo of Isara Kingdom, Oba Peter Oluwole Ogunbayo, stressing the importance of monarchs working with government to improve local development.
Obasanjo noted that traditional rulers hold a vital role in national progress and must continuously impact their communities by promoting unity, peace, and socio-economic growth.
Congratulating the new monarch, he encouraged Oba Ogunbayo to unite his people, strengthen relationships within and beyond Isara, and lead efforts toward sustainable development.
“I must thank our Governor, Dapo Abiodun, for approving the installation of our brother and Kabiyesi, Oba Peter Ogunbayo, as the new Odemo of Isara Remo. We are grateful to the governor,” he said.
“My advice is in line with what the Akarigbo and Paramount Ruler of Remo land, Oba Babatunde Ajayi, has said. The essence of installing traditional rulers is to enhance peace and further development in their domains.
“I am happy that the new Odemo has been involved in community development before his enthronement, and he must continue on that path. That is why God has given him this grace to lead this great town.
“I urge you to work in cooperation with others for the upliftment of this community. We achieve more when we work together in unity. I pray God makes your reign peaceful and memorable.”
Also speaking, the Akarigbo of Remoland, Oba Babatunde Ajayi, advised the new monarch to reconcile with other contenders and focus on unity and development, assuring him of the backing of fellow traditional rulers.
Ogun State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ganiyu Hamzat, described the installation as a reflection of Governor Dapo Abiodun’s commitment to preserving cultural heritage.
He confirmed that due process was followed in the monarch’s selection and urged residents to support him, while also warning against land grabbing and any involvement of traditional rulers in illegal land dealings.
“At this point, I want to swiftly inform you of the Land Grabbing Prohibition Law in Ogun State, which, among others, prohibits land-grabbing and wanton allocation of lands in the state for personal gains, without due recourse to the appropriate authority.
“I must say that the Ogun State Government not only frowns at land-grabbing activities but detests the involvement of any traditional ruler in such dastardly acts.
“Therefore, I advise our new Kabiyesi to support the anti-land-grabbing campaign by ensuring that measures and machinery are put in place to curb land grabbing and other related criminalities in your domain,” Hazmat stated.
In his acceptance speech, Oba Ogunbayo called for unity and promised an inclusive style of leadership that would involve all stakeholders, including ruling houses, youths, women, and those in the diaspora.
He also announced plans to establish a Royal Economic Advisory Council to promote development, unity, and long-term growth in Isara Kingdom.
