A Lagos lawmaker, Mr Setonji David on Wednesday urged traditional rulers to be non-partisan ahead of elections in order to foster peace.
David, representing Badagry Constituency II in the Lagos State House of Assembly, made the plea in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos.
The lawmaker spoke against the backdrop of the recent elevation of three chiefs of Ajara, Badagry Central, to the status of Obas by Gov. Akinwunmi Ambode.
NAN reports that the chiefs got the nod of the State Executive Council on Jan. 24, at the recommendation of the state’s Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs.
The promoted traditional rulers are Chief Ahisu Koshoedo – Baale of Ajara vetho, Chief Godonu Avoseh – Baale of Ajara Agamathen and Chief Amosu Owolabani – Baale of Ajara Topa.
The lawmaker urged the traditional rulers to be fathers to all, as politicians and others look up to them for direction in all matters that affect the society.
According to him, traditional rulers should not be involved in politics, but show direction to the people.
“I am so happy over the promotion. Our people have been yearning for an Oba for almost 50 years.
“Thank God that three Obas were approved for the area. It will bring a lot of development to the place as Obas are the custodians of the values of the people.
“They know the history of the people, our way of life. They know the things that we want as a people. We value them so much.
“They know what we want, so upgrading our Baales to Obas is a wonderful development,’’ David, the Acting Chairman, House Committee on Physical Planning and Urban Development said.
The lawmaker described the development as unprecedented in the history of Badagry traditional institutions.
He said that traditional rulers should be role models to the society and should play positive roles in peace building.
The lawmaker, who commended Ambode for the gesture, said that the people of Ajara Vetho had appeared before various chieftaincy tribunals over agitations for an Oba.
He said that the struggle dates back to the 1970s, and the new titles would assure the people of the area of the government’s commitment at ensuring equity for all.
David said of all the administrative groups that made up old Egun-Awori District Council, which included Badagry, only Ajara was left behind, and the elevation represents a major redress of chieftaincy matters in Ajara’s interest. (NAN)