The Oba of Lagos, His Royal Majesty Oba Rilwan Babatunde Akiolu, has called on the Lagos State Government to provide adequate logistical and financial support to upgraded traditional rulers to prevent some of them from resorting to land grabbing.
The monarch made the call on Sunday during a prayer session organised by Islamic clerics to commemorate his 23rd anniversary on the throne.
Reflecting on the activities of traditional rulers across Lagos, Oba Akiolu said most monarchs and respected chiefs in the state work to maintain peace and order. However, he expressed concern over the actions of some traditional rulers whom he accused of becoming involved in land grabbing.
“I didn’t like it at all. And I have pleaded and advised the government that when you upgrade all these people, give them the logistics 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,” the monarch said.
Oba Akiolu also expressed gratitude to God for sustaining him throughout his 23 years on the throne, recalling the circumstances surrounding his coronation.
He said the anniversary marked exactly 23 years since the late Chief Tajudeen Gbadamosi crowned him at Enu Owa, the traditional coronation ground in Lagos.
“Today is exactly 23 years ago, when the late Chief Tajudeen Gbadamosi placed the crown on me at the traditional place, Enu Owa in Lagos.
“And since then, it has been progress, upon progress, upon progress, from God Almighty,” he said.
The monarch attributed his successful reign to divine guidance and the support he received from prominent political figures, particularly President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who was governor of Lagos State when Oba Akiolu ascended the throne.
He explained that prayer and reliance on God had remained central to his leadership, providing him with the wisdom and direction needed to manage the affairs of the traditional institution.
Speaking at the event, Lagos State Head of Service, Olabode Agoro, described Oba Akiolu as a father figure to the people of Lagos, praising his compassion, generosity and discipline.
Agoro said the monarch does not hesitate to commend people when they do what is right, while also calling out wrongdoing when necessary.
He also highlighted Oba Akiolu’s commitment to preserving Lagos culture, noting that the monarch has on several occasions written to the state government requesting recognition and a public holiday for Isese Day.
Similarly, the Managing Director of Primero Transport Services, Fola Tinubu, described the monarch as a caring father who treats many people as his own children.
Tinubu praised Oba Akiolu for the wisdom with which he has managed the traditional institution and contributed to the affairs and development of Lagos.
He said the monarch consistently supports initiatives aimed at improving the state and promotes efforts that can contribute to Lagos’ continued development.
The anniversary prayer session was attended by prominent Lagos indigenes, members of the monarch’s family, children, grandchildren, friends and other well-wishers.
During the gathering, Islamic clerics recited verses from the Quran and offered prayers for Oba Akiolu to continue his reign in good health, wisdom and strength.
Prayers were also offered for the continued peace and development of Lagos State, as well as for Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
