Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, urged members of the State Council of Obas to discourage their members from engaging in acts of indiscipline, such as allocating land for illegal mining and unauthorized sales of government land, especially in plantations.
This call was made during the inauguration of Oba Kehinde Olugbenle, the Olu of Ilaro and Paramount Ruler of Yewaland, as the new chairman of the Ogun State Council of Obas at the Oba’s Complex, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.
Governor Abiodun expressed disappointment over some erring Obas and Baales whose activities have caused significant environmental damage and posed threats to public infrastructure due to illegal mining.
He announced that an Executive Order would soon be issued to address any Oba or Baale found culpable. Additionally, the governor warned traditional rulers against involvement in partisan politics, emphasizing their role in supporting government developmental efforts.
Abiodun charged the traditional rulers to use their positions to promote peace and unity within their domains. He underscored the importance of the traditional institution in ensuring good governance in Ogun State, promising support and resources to empower the monarchs for effective service delivery.
The governor highlighted the resilience and adaptability of Yoruba culture amidst Western civilization’s encroachment, noting its crucial role in shaping Yorubaland’s cultural landscape. He commended the traditional rulers for their invaluable contributions to the state’s rapid development and transformation, attributing these successes to their insight, wisdom, and grassroots connections.
New Leadership and Commendations
Governor Abiodun congratulated Oba Olugbenle on his new role and urged him to leverage his intellectual prowess to unite and advance the state’s traditional institution. He also praised the outgoing Chairman, Oba Babatunde Ajayi, for his exemplary leadership over the past two years, which has significantly supported the administration’s development agenda.
Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Ganiyu Hamzat, lauded the governor’s commitment to the welfare of traditional rulers and their communities. He also commended Oba Ajayi for his meritorious service, expressing confidence in Oba Olugbenle’s ability to continue fostering strong ties between the state government and traditional rulers.
In his acceptance speech, Oba Olugbenle thanked Governor Abiodun for his dedication to the development of the traditional institution and Ogun State. He pledged ongoing cooperation and support from the Council of Obas to achieve more positive outcomes for the state.
Oba Babatunde Ajayi, the immediate past Chairman, reflected on his tenure’s achievements, including fostering unity, discipline, and collaboration with the government to drive development, peace, and prosperity in the state.
