Sanwo-Olu reaffirms commitment to partnering with traditional rulers for inclusive governance

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with traditional institutions as a key driver of inclusive governance and cultural preservation.

Governor Sanwo-Olu gave this reaffirmation on Friday at the opening of a 2-day retreat for the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs, themed: “Strengthening Traditional Institutions through Collaboration for Growth and Peaceful Co-Existence in Lagos State, held at Sheraton Hotels, Ikeja, Lagos, stressing that traditional rulers played a critical role in bridging the gap between government policies and the grassroots.

The commended traditional rulers for their role in maintaining peace and promoting unity across communities, assuring them of improved welfare packages as part of the state government’s ongoing support for traditional institutions.

Governor Sanwo-Olu, represented by his deputy, Dr. Kadir Obafemi Hamzat, acknowledged the vital contributions of monarchs to governance and community development, describing the retreat as a platform to foster collaboration and align the goals of traditional leaders with the policies of the state government.

The Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs is a vital cornerstone in our collective pursuit of sustained growth, inclusive development, and harmony. This retreat is living proof of our enduring partnership.

“I firmly believe traditional institutions must remain central to governance. You are the bridge between policy and people, between modern governance and ancestral wisdom. Working together, we can forge a governance model that respects our traditions while positioning Lagos for the future,” the governor stated.

The governor, while emphasizing the significance of traditional rulers as custodians of culture and key mediators between the government and grassroots communities, described them as a bridge “between policy and people, between modern governance and ancestral wisdom.”

Governor Sanwo-Olu praised their efforts in maintaining law and order, and commended their sacrifices in safeguarding the cultural heritage of the state.

Sanwo-Olu also touched on critical issues facing the state, including boundary disputes particularly at Isheri-Olofin with neighbouring Ogun State as well as environmental concerns such as flooding caused by excessive rainfall and rising water levels, urging the monarchs to support the government in mitigating these challenges, especially by protecting land from encroachment and avoiding internal land disputes.

The State Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development, Mr. Kayode Roberts, described the traditional rulers as essential partners in governance, who served as liaisons between the people and the government.

The commissioner, while emphasizing that their roles in maintaining peace, resolving conflicts, and promoting community development cannot be overemphasised, further described them as custodians of heritage and values, as they occupy a unique and strategic position, not just as cultural icons, but also as key partners in governance.

Also speaking, the Speaker, Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa, who spoke through the Chairman, House Committee on Local Government, Hon. Stephen Ogundipe, called for greater cooperation among the monarchs, particularly concerning ongoing land disputes in court.

In his goodwill message, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro (SAN), who was represented by Director, Legislative Drafting, Ministry of Justice, Mrs. Folashade Thomas-Orogan, reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to a reform process that honours heritage, promotes dignity, and strengthens the pillars of governance and justice across all levels of society.

Pedro stated that the retreat was significant, saying that it took place against the backdrop of the ongoing review of the Obas and Chiefs Law of Lagos State, 2015, which provides the legal framework for the recognition and regulation of traditional rulers in the State.

He said that the law is being revisited to ensure it aligns with evolving realities, addresses existing gaps, and strengthens the enduring relevance of the traditional institutions in the governance framework of Lagos State.

“The Lagos State Government recognizes the traditional institution not merely as a ceremonial remnant of the past but as an active and strategic partner in governance, in conflict resolution, cultural preservation, community mobilisation, and peace-building.

“It is expected that this retreat will be geared towards entrenching this role and enhancing the institutional capacity of all stakeholders, including our royal fathers, to continue contributing meaningfully to the development and stability of our state,” he said.

The Vice Chairman of the Council  of Oba, Ayangburen of Ikorodu, Oba Kabiru Shotobi, in his remark, requested that quarterly meetings be held between traditional rulers and the state government to improve communication and policy alignment.

The monarch also urged the Federal Government to upgrade the 37 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) in Lagos to full-fledged local governments, even as he called on the state government to allocate 5% of local government funds to traditional rulers.

Oba Shotobi further advocated for a stronger advisory role for traditional institutions in governance.

Also speaking, the Oniru of Iruland, Oba Gbolahan Lawal, pledged continued support from traditional rulers to the government.

“We will continue to partner with the government to promote peace and development. Our role in conflict resolution is critical, and if well harnessed, will contribute significantly to the state’s progress,” the monarch said.

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