The Okere of Sakiland, Oba Khalid Oyeniyi Olabisi Oyedepo III, has reaffirmed the historical hierarchy and established order of precedence among traditional chiefs in Sakiland, urging them to respect the existing traditional structure and preserve the integrity of the institution.
The monarch gave the clarification on Friday while addressing traditional chiefs at his palace shortly after attending the weekly Jummah prayer at the Saki Central Mosque.
The Royal father while setting the record straight on the historical ranking of traditional chiefs, emphasised the need for them to understand and respect the positions and responsibilities attached to their respective titles as established from time immemorial.
He urged the chiefs to maintain decorum, uphold the existing traditional order and allow the status quo to prevail, cautioning against actions capable of creating unnecessary rivalry, confusion or discord within the traditional institution.
The monarch noted that, elevation to higher positions within the traditional institution ultimately rested with God, advising the chiefs against undue haste and attempts to assume positions beyond their recognised status. He charged them to exercise patience, demonstrate maturity and maintain orderliness in their respective areas of traditional responsibility.
On the preservation of ancestral heritage, the monarch advised the chiefs to compile, document and regularly update the historical backgrounds, genealogies, facts and figures relating to their respective families and traditional titles.
He stressed that such documentation would provide an enduring repository of authentic ancestral information, safeguard family identities, prevent the distortion of historical narratives and preserve valuable records for the benefit of succeeding generations.
The traditional ruler further urged the chiefs to take their responsibilities as custodians of history seriously by ensuring that relevant information about their family origins, lineage, succession and traditional institutions was properly preserved.
He urged his subjects to eschew divisive tendencies, embrace mutual understanding and demonstrate collective commitment to the development and prosperity of the ancient town.