Lagos traditional ruler installs Seriki Fulani in Badagry

The traditional ruler of Kweme Kingdom in Badagry, Lagos State, Oba Sejiro James, the Aholu of Kweme, has officially installed Alhaji Mohammed Umar as the Seriki Fulani of Badagry.

The installation ceremony, which was attended by Fulani socio-cultural organisations from the South-West and neighbouring Republic of Benin, took place at the Sito Gbethrome Community along the Semé expressway in Badagry.

Presenting the traditional staff and beads to Umar, Oba James described the Fulani people as peace-loving. “Though the stool you are on is too high, you have been endorsed by God today, and He will be guarding you,” he stated, offering his blessings to the new Seriki Fulani.

The traditional ruler further urged Umar to remain vigilant and be proactive in addressing issues within the Badagry communities, particularly the ongoing conflicts between pastoralists and farmers.

“God has always been in control,” James remarked, stressing the importance of ensuring peace within the region.

In his address, Oba James advised Umar to appoint someone to represent him in other communities in Badagry, ensuring that he stays informed and on top of the situation.

Alhaji Saidu Yusuf, the Chairman of the APC Arewa Communities in Lagos State, called for unity between the Fulani and Yoruba communities, urging them to set aside politics and work together for the development of their areas. “We must put politics apart and work for the development of our communities,” Yusuf said.

Alhaji Mohammed Laba, the Seriki Fulani of Abeokuta and Chairman of Miyetti Allah in the South-West, also spoke at the event, emphasising the role of such leadership installations in conflict resolution. “One of our own is being installed, we are happy we are in Badagry. This is from the grassroots and it will spread everywhere,” Laba stated, urging the new Seriki to ensure that pastoralists in the area refrain from engaging in criminal activities.

“We want peaceful relationships with our host communities who have given us land which we are enjoying. We have been in this place doing our businesses peacefully without being harmed, and we will give the same in return,” Laba added.

Alhaji Aminu Dogara, the Chairman of the Arewa Council of Chiefs in Lagos State, pledged continued commitment to the welfare of all citizens in the state.

The Aholu of Dale Whedako, Oba Olusegun Wheto, offered a prayer for the new Seriki, asking for divine wisdom to guide him in his leadership.

In his acceptance speech, the newly installed Seriki Fulani, Alhaji Mohammed Umar, assured the gathering that he would prioritize addressing the pressing issues of poverty, education, and healthcare for his people. “We must also preserve our cultural heritage and traditions, while embracing innovation and progress,” he affirmed.

Umar called on his people to follow the established rules for cow rearing and to support the people of Badagry, promising to work tirelessly to promote their culture and ensure peaceful coexistence in the area.

The installation ceremony was also attended by other traditional rulers, including Oba Adekanmi Oyekanmi, the Alapa of Apa Kingdom; traditional chiefs; representatives of the Nigeria Police and Army; as well as other notable figures from Badagry and Lagos.

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