The Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu, has called on the Lagos State Government to provide adequate logistical support to traditional rulers whose status has been upgraded, warning that failure to do so could encourage some of them to engage in land grabbing activities.
Akiolu made the call on Sunday during a prayer session held to commemorate the 23rd anniversary of his ascension to the throne.
The monarch said most traditional rulers and chiefs in Lagos were committed to maintaining order and promoting peace, but expressed concern that some had resorted to land grabbing for reasons he described as unacceptable.
He urged the state government to ensure that traditional rulers were adequately supported to enable them to discharge their responsibilities effectively.
“I have pleaded and advised the government that when you upgrade all these people, give them the logistic support to hold that office. It was in the absence of that they resort to land grabbing, which is not in the best interest of any human behaviour,” Akiolu said.
Reflecting on his 23 years on the throne, the monarch expressed gratitude to God for what he described as progress recorded during his reign.
He also acknowledged the support of President Bola Tinubu, who was governor of Lagos State when Akiolu ascended the throne in 2003.
The Lagos State Head of Service, Olabode Agoro, described Akiolu as a compassionate and disciplined monarch who appreciates good conduct and speaks out against wrongdoing.
Agoro also commended the monarch for his commitment to the preservation of culture, noting that Akiolu had on occasions advocated for the recognition of Isese Day as a public holiday in Lagos.
Similarly, the Managing Director of Primero Transport Services, Fola Tinubu, described Akiolu as a father figure who had contributed significantly to the development of Lagos.
He praised the monarch for the wisdom with which he had managed the traditional institution and promoted initiatives aimed at advancing the state.
The anniversary prayer session was attended by family members, friends, prominent Lagos indigenes and other dignitaries.
Islamic clerics at the event recited verses from the Quran and offered prayers for Akiolu’s continued good health, wisdom and peaceful reign.
Prayers were also offered for the Lagos State Government and President Bola Tinubu.