Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State has issued a stern warning to traditional rulers in the state, urging them to refrain from allocating land for illegal mining activities and unauthorized selling of government land.
This admonition was delivered during the inauguration of the Olu of Ilaro and head of traditional rulers in Yewaland, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle, as Chairman of the Council of Traditional Rulers in the state on Tuesday.
Speaking at the ceremony held in Abeokuta, Governor Abiodun emphasized the critical role traditional rulers play in promoting peace and unity within their domains.
He particularly stressed the importance of safeguarding plantation lands from unauthorized sales and illegal mining operations, which he noted have caused significant environmental degradation in various communities.
The governor expressed his disappointment with the actions of some traditional rulers and local royal leaders involved in these illicit activities.
To address this issue, he announced plans to issue an Executive Order that would impose strict penalties on any traditional ruler found engaging in such practices.
“The traditional institution is a vital arm of government in ensuring good governance in our state,” Abiodun stated.
“My administration is committed to supporting and empowering traditional rulers by providing the necessary resources, infrastructure, and platforms for them to effectively carry out their duties.”
Governor Abiodun also cautioned the traditional rulers against participating in partisan politics, emphasizing that their primary role is to support the government in its developmental initiatives across the state.
He commended the traditional rulers for their leadership and dedication to the welfare of their communities.
The governor took the opportunity to praise the immediate past Chairman of the council, the Akarigbo and head of traditional rulers in Remoland, Oba Babatunde Ajayi, for his exemplary leadership over the past two years.
In his acceptance speech, Oba Olugbenle expressed gratitude to Governor Abiodun for his dedication to the development of the traditional institution and the overall growth of Ogun State.
He assured the governor that the Council of Traditional Rulers would continue to collaborate with the state administration to achieve positive outcomes for the people.
“The entire members of the Council of Traditional Rulers will continue to cooperate, collaborate, and provide the required support for the present administration in achieving more positive results in the state,” Oba Olugbenle affirmed.
