The Chairman of Igbogbo/Baiyeku Local Council Development Area in Lagos State, Hammed Aroyewun, has called for constitutional reforms that would grant traditional rulers greater authority in governance and grassroots development.
The Punch reported that Aroyewun made the appeal on Sunday at the traditional prayer programme marking the 10th coronation anniversary of the Adeboruwa of Igbogbo Kingdom, Oba Semiudeen Kasali.
He argued that despite their critical contributions to community development, traditional rulers have been relegated to largely ceremonial roles under Nigeria’s current constitutional framework.
He said, “I am an advocate of giving our traditional rulers a significant role in the development and decision-making of our society, the way it was before. You can see that Kabiyesi is more like a ceremonial head, unlike before.”
“There is a need to really empower them because there is no development that they are not part of, but constitutionally, they are not part of it.”
Aroyewun also commended Oba Kasali for preserving the cultural identity of Igbogbo Kingdom and reviving customs that had fallen into disuse.
He added, “Kabiyesi has indeed protected the culture, tradition and our heritage. There is no tradition in this kingdom, even those that were abandoned, he has awakened them to bring peace, tranquillity, and development to Igbogbo Kingdom and its people.”
Also speaking, a former member of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Adebimpe Akinsola, urged governments at all levels to strengthen traditional institutions, describing them as the closest authorities to the people at the grassroots.
She praised Oba Kasali’s reign, describing him as “an educated king, civilised, loving and humble,” and noted that the kingdom had recorded remarkable progress since he ascended the throne.
She said, “In those days, before civilisation, governance was always with the traditional institution.”
“They should empower them. They are the people at the grassroots. They know the nooks and crannies of the communities. The government should empower them to take charge of their domain.”
A former chairman of the Igbogbo/Baiyeku LCDA, Olusesan Daini, also underscored the relevance of traditional institutions, saying governments could benefit from their indigenous knowledge and leadership experience.
Daini described Oba Kasali as “a gentleman, a principled man, a courageous man, and somebody who is committed to development,” recalling that he witnessed the monarch’s dedication during his two terms as council chairman.
He added, “They should be supported because they don’t have as many resources as the government. The government should give them maximum support to help them play their role.”
In his remarks, the former Deputy Rector of the defunct Lagos State Polytechnic, now Lagos State University of Science and Technology, Olasunkanmi Longe, praised the monarch for combining his legal expertise with his traditional responsibilities.
According to him, Oba Kasali has promoted justice, equity and peaceful coexistence within the kingdom.
He said, “His Majesty has uniquely blended the nobility of the legal profession with the sacred duties of the throne.”
“Your adherence to the rule of law, equity and justice has transformed governance within the kingdom, ensuring that peace reigns supreme and disputes are resolved with unparalleled wisdom.”
The anniversary celebration attracted community members, government officials, traditional rulers and other dignitaries.
