The traditional rulers in Lagos State has urged the Lagos State governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, to set aside August 20 annually for traditional worshippers in the state.
Oniru of Iruland, Gbolahan Lawal, Elegushi of Ikate land, Saheeh Elegushi, among other monarchs, agreed that Isese Day would help in spiritual security of the state.
The monarch made the call at the inauguration of Lagos State Council of Òbàs and Chiefs at the State House, Ikeja.
While appealing for August 20 as Isese Day, the Lagos Council of Òbàs asked Governor Sanwo-Olu to give special recognition to the annual traditional festival in recognition of the role of traditional institutions in the state.
Speaking on behalf of the other monarchs, the Elegushi of Ikateland, Ọba Saheed Elegushi, said the democracy being practised in Nigeria gave equal recognition to all religions.
He argued that since Christians and Muslims had special days recognised by government to celebrate their festivals, the Isese Day celebrated by traditional institution should also be recognised.
Also, the Oniru of Iruland, Ọba Omogbolahan Wasiu, said traditional rulers also provided spiritual security which he observed was very important, adding that various rites such as Oro, would be carried out on the day so as to protect lives and property of residents.
However, the governor tasked the traditional rulers to make the vital issue of security in the state their collective concern.
He pointed out that collaboration of the monarchs with the government and its security agencies would help in safe guarding the peace that Lagos State had always enjoyed.
While inaugurating the 84-member council for another 5-year term, Sanwo-Olu urged the traditional rulers to “continue serving as vital bridges between the people and the government as fathers of their respective communities.”
He noted that the state recognized and appreciated the vital role traditional rulers play in ensuring peace, harmony and stability, thereby creating a conducive environment for everyone in the communities to live, work and transact their businesses without fear or intimidation.
“It is in furtherance of this conviction that a total number of 48 Òbàs were installed between June 2020 to May 2023”, he said.
The governor congratulated the monarchs and noted that the inauguration of the council further attested to the high pedestal his administration placed traditional institution and its relevance to the contemporary governance structure and delivery of dividends of democracy.
“On our part, as an administration, we have continued to support our traditional rulers with welfare packages to enhance their mobility and general upkeep, as well as the construction and renovation of palaces across the state.
“It is our expectation that all of these will aid seamless discharge of your duties in your respective domains”, Sanwo-Olu said.
