Seek more security presence in forest reserves, urge elevation of deserving Obas.
The Oke-Ogun Obas Association has commended the Oyo State Government for its prompt intervention following the recent attack on an Operation Burst security base in Igbeti, Olorunsogo LGA of the state.
The traditional rulers gave the commendation on Thursday at the palace of the Okere of Sakiland, Oba Dr Surv. Khalid Oyeniyi Olabisi Oyedepo III in Saki, during the association’s monthly meeting held under the chairmanship of the monarch.
The meeting brought together traditional rulers from across Oke-Ogun to deliberate on issues affecting the welfare of their subjects and the socio-economic development of the zone, with security, infrastructure and other pressing challenges dominating the discussions.
The Ruler fathers stressed the need for sustained synergy between traditional institutions, security agencies and community-based security outfits, noting that a coordinated approach remained imperative to safeguarding lives and property.
They also called for increased government intervention and security presence in forest reserves and other protected areas across Oke-Ogun, expressing concern that the vast forested areas could be exploited by criminal elements if left inadequately secured.
On infrastructure, the monarchs expressed concern over the condition of roads linking various communities in the zone and called for sustained government attention to the rehabilitation and completion of major road projects.
They noted that functional road networks remained critical to the movement of agricultural produce, expansion of commercial activities and the opening up of rural communities to economic opportunities.
The meeting also considered the issue of the elevation of traditional rulers whose promotions, according to the monarchs, had remained outstanding for an extended period.
The Obas appealed to Governor Seyi Makinde to expedite action on the elevation of deserving traditional rulers, urging the state government to ensure that monarchs due for promotion were accorded their elevated status, including the presentation of the beaded crown as a symbol of authority.
They said timely elevation of deserving monarchs would enhance the dignity of the traditional institution and strengthen the authority of traditional rulers in the discharge of their responsibilities.
The monarchs further reaffirmed their commitment to peace, unity and peaceful coexistence across Oke-Ogun, particularly as the 2027 general elections draw closer.
They urged political actors and their supporters to shun violence, inflammatory statements, hate speech and other acts capable of undermining the peace and stability of the region.
The traditional rulers also felicitated with Nigerians and their subjects on the occasion of the country’s 66th Independence Anniversary, wishing the nation peace, unity, prosperity and sustainable development.
They urged Nigerians to sustain patriotism, peaceful coexistence and collective commitment to the progress of the country.