Monarchs back Sanwo-Olu’s administration, pledge loyalty

By Oyebola Owolabi

Traditional rulers in Lagos State have reiterated their commitment to continuously support the Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration to achieve its development plans for the state.

The royal fathers made the promise in Epe during a three-day retreat for traditional rulers organised by the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development.

The monarchs appealed that the government should continue to involve the traditional institution in governance.

Governor Sanwo-Olu, represented by the Chief of Staff, Tayo Ayinde restated the government’s commitment to the welfare of traditional leaders, and assured them they would continue to be consulted to ensure continuous social development, peace and prosperity.

The governor also thanked the monarchs for their role helping government better understand the impact of governance on the people.

Chairman of the House of Assembly Committee on Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs, and Rural Development Sanni Okanlawon, reiterated that the role of traditional institutions in governance, especially in ensuring peaceful co-existence among diverse people cannot be undermined. ‘Thus, the commitment of this administration to involving traditional rulers in efforts towards sustaining the peace and progress that Lagos State enjoys,’ he said.

Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs, and Rural Development Bolaji Robert, in his welcome address, thanked Governor Sanwo-Olu for his inclusive policy which has afforded traditional rulers the opportunity to contribute to the state’s development.

He noted that the retreat is an opportunity for the government and traditional institution to interact and share ways to ensure continued peace in Lagos State, ‘because it is important for traditional rulers, as important stakeholders, to be informed and equipped with adequate knowledge that would foster their efforts in conflict resolutions and the promotion of peaceful co-existence in their domains and the state.

The Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Kikelomo Bolarinwa, hailed the governor’s efforts in prioritising the traditional institution ‘which has helped monarchs to perform their roles effectively’.

The three-day retreat was themed ‘Traditional Rulers: Anchors in Times of Social Crisis’.