Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has called on traditional rulers across Nigeria, especially in the Southwest, to prioritise peace and actively champion development within their communities.
Obasanjo made the appeal on Tuesday during the installation and presentation of the staff of office to the new Odemo of Isara Kingdom, Oba Peter Oluwole Ogunbayo. He emphasised the crucial role monarchs play in grassroots mobilisation and national development.
According to him, traditional institutions occupy a strategic position and must complement government efforts by fostering unity, ensuring peace, and driving socio-economic progress in their domains.
Congratulating the new monarch, Obasanjo urged him to act as a unifying figure, promoting harmony within Isara and neighbouring communities while sustaining efforts toward development.
He also commended Dapo Abiodun for approving the installation, expressing appreciation for the state government’s role in preserving traditional leadership structures.
“My advice aligns with what the Akarigbo and Paramount Ruler of Remoland has said — the purpose of installing traditional rulers is to enhance peace and advance development,” Obasanjo noted, adding that the new Odemo must build on his track record of community service.
Also speaking, the Akarigbo and Paramount Ruler of Remoland, Oba Babatunde Ajayi, urged the monarch to reconcile with other contenders for the throne and prioritise unity, assuring him of continued support from fellow traditional rulers.
In his remarks, Ogun State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ganiyu Hamzat, described the installation as a reflection of the government’s commitment to preserving cultural heritage.
He stressed that due process was followed in the selection and called on residents to support the new monarch. Hamzat also issued a stern warning against land grabbing, noting that the government would not tolerate any involvement of traditional rulers in illegal land dealings.
He further encouraged the monarch to align with the state’s development blueprint, “Building Our Future Together,” to accelerate growth in Isara and Remoland.
In his acceptance speech, Oba Ogunbayo called for unity and pledged an inclusive leadership style that would engage all stakeholders, including ruling houses, youths, women, and the diaspora.
The new monarch also unveiled plans to establish a Royal Economic Advisory Council aimed at driving sustainable development, economic growth, and cohesion within the Isara Kingdom.