By John Dike, Osogbo
The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, has called for greater unity, enhanced security collaboration, and sustained regional development among traditional institutions in Southern Nigeria.
He made the call while presiding over a high-level meeting of the Southern Nigerian Traditional Rulers Council (SNTRC) held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
Speaking during the roundtable at Galaxy La-Palm Royal Resort, the Ooni, who also serves as Permanent Co-Chairman of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria (NCTRN), stressed that the collective strength of monarchs across the South-West, South-East, and South-South remains crucial in addressing pressing challenges such as insecurity and socio-economic development.
According to a statement issued by the Director of Media and Public Affairs at the Ooni’s Palace, Otunba Moses Olafare, the revered monarch noted that the council was established to foster unity and strengthen the role of traditional institutions in governance.
He added that the council’s growing relevance is anchored on the diversity, experience, and influence of its members across the region.
The Ooni commended previous host governors, including Hope Uzodinma, as well as the governments of Ogun and Lagos States, for supporting earlier meetings of the council.
He also praised the Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, and the people of the state for hosting the current session, describing it as a vital platform for dialogue on peace, unity, and sustainable development.
The meeting attracted several prominent traditional rulers, including the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja; the Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye III; the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi; the Olu of Ilaro, Oba Kehinde Gbadewole Olugbenle; the Oniru of Iru Kingdom, Oba Abdulwasiu Omogbolahan Lawal; the Ogoga of Ikere, Oba Adu Adejimi Alagbado; and the Alara of Epe, Oba Olufolarin Olukayode Ogunsanwo, among others.
In his remarks, Governor Fubara lauded the unity demonstrated by the monarchs despite cultural and ideological differences, noting that their shared commitment to peace and development aligns with Nigeria’s broader national interest.
He emphasized the need for closer collaboration between government and traditional institutions in tackling key security challenges, including kidnapping, farmer-herder conflicts, and separatist agitations.
Fubara also expressed support for the re-election of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, stating that continuity in leadership is essential for sustaining ongoing economic reforms and infrastructural development.
Deliberations at the meeting focused on critical regional issues such as security, national unity, grassroots development, and preparations for the 2027 general elections, with participants stressing the importance of peace and stability.
The Southern Nigerian Traditional Rulers Council, which comprises first-class monarchs from the 17 Southern states, continues to play a significant role in Nigeria’s governance framework, leveraging its grassroots influence to promote harmony and development across the region.
