Governor Abiodun Warns Ogun State Obas Against Indiscipline and Partisan Politics

Abeokuta, Ogun State – Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State has issued a stern warning to the members of the State Council of Obas, urging them to desist from engaging in acts of indiscipline, particularly the allocation of land for illegal mining and unauthorized selling of government lands. The governor expressed his disappointment over the activities of some traditional rulers during the inauguration of the Olu of Ilaro and Paramount Ruler of Yewaland, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle, as the new Chairman of the Ogun State Council of Obas.

Governor Abiodun highlighted the severe environmental impact caused by illegal mining activities, which pose significant threats to critical public infrastructure in the state. To address these issues, the governor announced plans to issue an Executive Order targeting any Oba or Baale found engaging in such activities.

Furthermore, the governor cautioned traditional rulers against involving themselves in partisan politics. He emphasized that their primary role is to support the government’s developmental efforts across the state. Governor Abiodun encouraged the traditional rulers to use their esteemed positions to promote peace and unity within their domains.

Key Points from Governor Abiodun’s Speech:

1. Commitment to Justice and Fairness: The governor reassured the traditional rulers of the government’s dedication to justice and fairness, noting the importance of their advisory roles in supporting the state’s rapid development and transformation.
2. Support for Traditional Institutions: Governor Abiodun acknowledged the resilience and adaptability of Yoruba culture amid the encroachment of Western civilization. He promised continued support and empowerment for the monarchs through the provision of necessary resources and infrastructure.
3. Role of Traditional Rulers: Emphasizing the invaluable insights and grassroots connections of traditional rulers, the governor highlighted their contributions to the administration’s development agenda. He thanked the royal fathers for their support, which has been instrumental in achieving the administration’s successes.
4. Development Plans: The administration’s development plans aim to build on the legacies of the founding fathers of the old Western Region. Governor Abiodun assured that the government would not deviate from executing these plans.

Acknowledgments and Future Directions:

• Congratulations to the New Chairman: Governor Abiodun congratulated Oba Kehinde Olugbenle on his new role as Chairman and charged him to use his intellectual prowess to unite and promote the state’s traditional institution.
• Commendation for Outgone Chairman: The governor praised the outgone Chairman, Oba Babatunde Ajayi, for his exceptional leadership over the past two years, noting the support from the monarchs that has helped entrench development in the state.
• Call for Cooperation: The governor urged all monarchs to remain partners in progress, working together to build a better future for Ogun State for generations yet unborn.

Remarks by Officials:

• Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs: Hon. Ganiyu Hamzat commended Governor Abiodun for his commitment to the welfare of traditional rulers and communities. He lauded Oba Babatunde Ajayi for his meritorious service and expressed hope that the new Chairman, Oba Olugbenle, would sustain the established synergy between the state government and traditional rulers.
• Acceptance Speech by Oba Olugbenle: The new Chairman appreciated Governor Abiodun for his dedication to the development of the traditional institution and pledged the council’s continued cooperation and support for the administration.
• Remarks by Oba Babatunde Ajayi: The immediate past Chairman reflected on his tenure, noting efforts to foster unity, discipline, and collaboration with the government to drive development and prosperity in the state.