Kwara government presents staff of office to three upgraded monarchs

The Kwara Government on Monday presented staff of office and certificates to three upgraded monarchs, promising to accord more recognition to the traditional institution in the state.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the monarchs were those upgraded to third-class status in Kwara South Senatorial District.

The affected monarchs were Oba Victor Olawuyi, the Oloko of Oko, Oba Abdulwahab Adeyemi, Aala of Iala and Oba Abdulfatah Jimoh, the Eleju of Igbonla.

Speaking at the presentation held at the Irepodun Council Secretariat in Omu-Aran, the Deputy Governor, Mr Peter Kisra, described the monarchs as formidable partners in grassroots development.

He reiterated the government’s abiding faith in the traditional institution in promoting socio-economic development.

Kisra called on traditional rulers to work harmoniously with their subjects in aligning with government’s efforts aimed at transforming the grassroots.

“I wish to reiterate the state government’s abiding faith in the traditional institution as a veritable vehicle for growth, progress and development of the state,’’ he said.

Alhaji Saidu Abeeb, the State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, said the presentation was a clear testimony of the state government’s respect for the traditional institution.

Abeeb urged the upgraded monarchs to run an open door administration by according due recognition and respect to their subjects.

Hon. Muyiwa Oladipo, the Irepodun council Chairman, pledged the readiness of his administration to continue to partner with traditional rulers.

Oladipo commended Gov. Abdulfatah Ahmed for yielding to the yearnings and aspirations of the people of the council over the upgrading of traditional rulers.

He said the traditional institution remained the most effective organ of mass mobilisation for garnering support for government’s policies and programmes, especially at the grassroots.

Oladipo, who congratulated the monarchs over their upgrading, urged them not to relent in justifying the government’s gesture.

Adeyemi, in his response, called for more recognition for traditional rulers toward ensuring the effective and efficient discharge of their responsibilities.

“Traditional rulers nowadays bear the brunt in settling domestic issues and communal crisis.

“It is therefore not out of place if the government can provide financial remuneration in form of security vote to assist traditional rulers in their assignments,” he said.