Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has called on traditional rulers across the country to prioritise peace and mobilise their communities for development.
Obasanjo said traditional rulers are constitutionally positioned to drive development and complement government efforts in improving the lives of people at the grassroots.
He noted that modern-day monarchs must strive to add value to the lives of their subjects and remain committed to advancing unity and progress within their domains.
The former president gave the charge on Tuesday during the installation of the new Odemo of Isara Kingdom, Oba Peter Ogunbayo.
He urged the monarch to be a father to all and foster cordial relationships among residents as well as neighbouring communities.
Obasanjo added that beyond preserving tradition and culture, the monarch must mobilise his people to contribute to the socio-economic growth of the town.
While congratulating the new traditional ruler, he charged him to embody unity, love, and cooperation to accelerate development.
Obasanjo said, “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.
“My word of advice is not much, it is in line with what the Akarigbo and paramount ruler of Remo land, Oba Babatunde Ajayi, has said. There is no reason why we installed a traditional ruler other than to enhance the peace and further development of their various domain.
“I am however happy that our new Odemo of Isara has been at the forefront of the development of his community before his enthronement and this the Kabiyesi must continue to do because that is why God has given him this grace to be the leader of this great town.
“I therefore urge you to work in cooperation with others for the upliftment of this great community, we achieve a lot when we work together in unity. I pray that the Almighty God will make your reign very peaceful and memorable.”
Speaking at the event, the Akarigbo and Paramount Ruler of Remoland, Oba Michael Ajayi, urged the new monarch to reconcile with other contenders for the royal stool and work towards peace and development in the kingdom.
In his remarks, the Ogun State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ganiyu Hamzat, described the installation as a reflection of the administration’s commitment to preserving cultural heritage.
Hamzat said the selection process followed due procedure as stipulated in the laws governing the stool and chieftaincy matters in the state, while urging residents of Isara to support the new monarch.
He also advised the monarch to support the state’s anti-land-grabbing campaign and ensure the enforcement of measures to curb related criminal activities.
In his acceptance speech, Oba Ogunbayo called for unity and cooperation among all stakeholders, promising an inclusive administration.
He said his palace would collaborate with traditional institutions, development groups, youth and women organisations, security agencies, and other stakeholders to drive development.
“As part of my developmental vision, I am pleased to announce the establishment of a Royal Economic Advisory Council – a formidable team of experienced sons and daughters of Isara Remo who will guide and assist in implementing my royal cardinal agenda, a blueprint for growth, unity and sustainability in our kingdom,” he said.
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