By Abayomi Elias
At the Public lecture & Scholarship Award Presentation organized to celebrate ten years coronation anniversary of the Ayangburen of Ikorodu, the Honourable Speaker Lagos State House of Assembly RT. Honourable Mudashiru Obasa has charged traditional leaders to see themselves not just as an impartial arbiter in resolving conflicts, but rather a pivotal actor in the development of their communities.
Newsconnect reports that Obasa who was ably represented at the event by the Majority Leader of Lagos State House of Assembly Hon. Noheem Adams said this occasion is not merely a celebration of the decade of exemplary traditional leadership, however, it is to reflect on their mandate as traditional leaders who are the custodian of our culture and catalyst for good governance.
While speaking to the theme of the lecture dubbed “Contemporary Traditional Rulers And The Quest For Inclusive Governance And Development in Nigeria“, the speaker said;
”In support of the Obaship constitution in Lagos State, the House of Assembly passed the Obas and Chiefs law in the House of Assembly in 2015. Providing a legal frame work recognizing our traditional Rulers in the state.
“The law formalizes the rule of Obas, chiefs, baales, in the State. Promotes them from arbitrary interference. It also establishes mechanism for resolving chieftaincy disputes, defines their duty and regulate the creation of new titles.
”As we reflect on the past decade, I urge us all to envision the next ten years. How can traditional ruler actively engage in transformative development initiatives? How can they harness their positions to influence policies for the betterment of their communities ?
”These are critical questions we must answer together. I believe that through our active participation, honest dialogue and collaborating spirit, we can drive meaningful change in Nigeria.
”Our quest for good governance can only be realized when we unite our strength, prirotising transparency, accountability, above all, the wellbeing of our citizens. As we engage in discussion today and explore innovative solutions, let us remember that our work isn’t just to deliberate, it is our responsibilities to engage citizens to act on the resolutions made and implement the ideas generated here.
”On this momentous occasion, I urge our traditional leaders, community members and stakeholders to share their insight, reaffirm their commitment to the priciple of good governance and leave here inspired to take action. Let us embraceour roles as agent of change, starting from”. He said.
The deputy Governor of Lagos State Dr Kadiri Obafemi Hamzat who was represented at the event by Special Adviser to the Governor on Rural and community development Dr Nurudeen Agbaje among other things reiterated that the milestone of His royal Highness Oba Kabiru Shotobi Over a decade reflect exceptional leadership that is commendable. He is expressed satisfaction to be associated with the Kabiyesi who is an advocate of good governance.
The Keynote speaker at the event was Professor Siyan Oyeweso, a professor of history and African Studies. The Chairman of the occasion was High Chief Adewunmi Ogunsanya(SAN). Asiwaju Kaoli Olatunji Olusanya welcomed participants to the intellectual discourse. The Adeboruwa of Igbogbo kingdom Oba Semiudeen Orimadegun Kasali was physically present.
Other dignitaries at the event include Olori Bridget Kudirat Abosede Shotobi, Chairman of IKODASS Alhaji Fatai Kolawole, Rotimi Erogbogbo, the secretary of the 10th coronation anniversary and former Chairman IKODASS, Members of Nigeria Bar Association, Members of NUT, members of Ikorodu Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Ikorodu Iyaloja general Busola Isikalu, Iyaloja Igbgogo kingdom were among the dignitaries that graced the auspicious event.