The Onijan of Ijan Ekiti, Oba Adebanji Aladesuyi, has urged the federal government to grant constitutional roles to traditional rulers in the country to promote rapid development at the grassroots.
He argued that assigning specific responsibilities to the monarchs would enable them to contribute more effectively to the development of their respective communities.
Oba Aladesuyi made these remarks during an event marking his first coronation anniversary in Ijan-Ekiti, Gbonyin Local Government Area of Ekiti State.
He also advised the government to adopt a long-term approach to alleviate the effects of fuel subsidy removal on citizens.
During the well-attended event, over 10 eminent Nigerians were honoured with honorary chieftaincy titles, and nearly 20 sons and daughters of the town were recognised for their contributions to the development of the community, Ekiti State, and Nigeria.
The first-class monarch stated, “I believe we need the federal government to provide traditional rulers with the opportunity to rule and serve, given their proximity to the people and their subjects, as well as their role as custodians of tradition and culture.
Assigning them constitutional roles will undoubtedly enhance development at the grassroots. It would complement the efforts of local government administrators.
“As rulers in whatever capacity, there must be some defined level of responsibility attached to such an office; that’s why these roles are necessary.
“There should be specific responsibilities outlined for the person to fulfil in their role, so I believe it’s appropriate for the government to grant traditional rulers constitutional roles and provide them with the opportunity to fulfil their duties.
“These roles and responsibilities need to be clearly specified in the constitution. For example, we understand the roles of the government and its various arms.
The executive, legislative, and judiciary branches, even at the federal, state, and local government levels, have their respective jurisdictions, roles, and responsibilities clearly defined.
If we scale this down, we will realise that traditional rulers should also have their responsibilities while working with the government, which I think is normal for the government to consider.”
Regarding the palliatives being implemented by the federal government to mitigate the effects of fuel subsidy removal, he stated, “The government can do much more to cushion the effects of fuel subsidy removal and the resulting economic hardship on the people.
“This extends beyond the distribution of food items and other provisions because development encompasses many facets.
I had earlier suggested the establishment of cottage industries, cassava processing, palm oil mills, and similar ventures.
These are some of the things that can be utilised to develop the nation and its people. People need to be taught how to sustain themselves.”
When asked about the community’s expectations in the coming years, he encouraged them to anticipate continued peace in society, the establishment of local industries, and numerous developmental programmes.
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