By: Lauretta Fagbohun, Abeokuta.
The Ogun State Government has urged traditional rulers across the state to actively participate in the fight against land grabbing by implementing measures to curb the menace in their respective domains.
Governor Dapo Abiodun made this appeal during the official installation and presentation of the staff of office to Oba Oladele Najeem Odugbemi as the Onilisa of Lisa Kingdom in Ifo Local Government Area.
Represented by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Ganiyu Hamzat, the governor emphasized the government’s strong stance against land grabbing and warned that any traditional ruler found complicit in such activities would face serious consequences. He reiterated that the Ogun State Land Grabbing Prohibition Law remains in force, prohibiting unlawful land allocation for personal gain without government approval.
Hon. Hamzat congratulated the people of Lisa for their patience and resilience, noting that the transition of the Onilisa stool from Baaleship to Obaship status marked a significant milestone in the community’s history.
“Today’s ceremony is a testament to our administration’s commitment to positioning Ogun State at the forefront of progress. Traditional institutions play a crucial role in governance, bridging the gap between grassroots communities and the government. This is why we have prioritized the upgrading of deserving chieftaincy stools across the state,” Hon. Hamzat stated.
Charging Oba Odugbemi with the responsibility of preserving the culture and traditions of Lisa, the commissioner urged him to remain loyal to the leadership of Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo CFR, the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland. He encouraged the new monarch to foster peaceful relations with other royal fathers in Egbaland while ensuring the development of Lisa through collaborative efforts.
Hon. Hamzat also commended Oba Adedotun Gbadebo for his role in facilitating Oba Odugbemi’s appointment, noting that Egbaland had witnessed remarkable transformation under his leadership.
In his acceptance speech, Oba Oladele Odugbemi expressed gratitude to the state government for recognizing Lisa and upgrading its traditional stool. He thanked the Alake of Egbaland for recommending him and pledged his commitment to the development of Lisa and Ogun State at large.
The monarch called on Lisa’s residents to support his reign by fostering unity and peace in the community. He assured them of his dedication to championing developmental projects that would enhance the socio-economic progress of Lisa.
