Kunle Adelabu
Traditional rulers of Ijebu extraction in Lagos State have expressed their worries concerning the state of the nation, especially the issue of insecurity.
The traditional rulers expressed their concerns when they were hosted by the Adeboruwa of Igbogbo, His Royal Majesty, Oba (Barr.) Semuideen Orimadegun Kasali, in his palace in Igbogbo, Ikorodu Division, Lagos State, Southwest, Nigeria, on Sunday March, 28, 2021.
The revered monarchs stated that as permanent authority in their respective domains, they are concerned about the state of the nation.
While commending President Muhammadu Buhari for his efforts so far in tackling the security challenges, the royal fathers also called on his government to be more proactive in handling insecurities in virtually every part of the country.
Speaking on behalf of the royal fathers, His Royal Majesty, Oba (Engr.) Kabir Adewale Shotobi, the Ayangbure of Ikorodu, Permanent First Chairman , Lagos Council of Obas & Chiefs and the Chairman, Lagos State Ijebu Obas Forum, said that they are apolitical but keen observers of events, especially how the country is being governed.
While stating that they are concerned about the welfare of the people, he recalled the active engagements of royal fathers in the fight for the country’s independence and their participation in government.
“As traditional rulers, we feel bothered about the state of the nation and as stakeholders, we cannot hold our peace but make our contributions to the on-going conversations regarding the insecurity and other issues.
“All across the geopolitical zones in Nigeria, there are security reports that are inimical to the unity, peace and security of our land. There is fear and threat to safety of lives and properties everywhere.
“To travel in and around the country is fast becoming a risky journey, especially at night. Farmers are at loggerheads with animal herders, a situation which can further worsen the food security and impoverish the country”, Oba Shotobi said while expressing the worries of the royal fathers.
“In as much as the Nigeria Armed Forces, the Police and other security agencies are not relenting in the battle against insurgency and criminals, they seem to be overstretched across too many fronts.
“We salute and appreciate President Muhammadu Buhari for his efforts so far without which the situation might have been worse than it is. We, therefore, need to be proactive, think creatively and offer ideas for solution going forward”.
The Obas also deplored the effects of the military rules starting from 1966, which they said denied them of full participation in governance of the country.
