…appeals for partnership to end banditry
Hope James
The Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has charged traditional rulers in the state to work hard and sustain peace in their various domains.
The Governor said this in Ijurin Ekiti, Ijero Local Government area of Ekiti State, on Thursday, during the end of the year get-together organised by the Majority Obas of Ekiti Land (MOBEL), held at the palace of Ojurin, HRH Oba Adeyemi Afolabi Ajibola.
Oyebanji, who was represented by his Deputy, Chief (Mrs) Christianah Monisade Afuye, described traditional institution as pivotal to the success of any nation, particularly at this stage when the country is being pummeled by bandits and killers.
Expressing fear over the few cases of kidnapping witnessed in Ekiti recently, he appealed to the Traditional Rulers to partner all the cadres of governments and salvage the nation from the threats of bandits, kidnappers and killers, stating that such horrendous incidences can be tackled with traditional rulers coalescing efforts with governments to secure their towns and villages across the state.
In a statement by the Special Assistant (Media) to the Deputy Governor, Victor Ogunje, Oyebanji tasked the traditional rulers to contribute more to abate the rising spate of insecurity in the country, especially cases of kidnapping, arson attacks, senseless carnages and bloodshed being witnessed across the nation.
He added that the fact that the June 18,2022 governorship election was conducted without bloodshed and crisis signposted the enormous and stabilizing role played by the monarchs and other stakeholders.
“Going by the positions you occupy; you are the natural leaders of our people. I charge you to work hard and save the future of our country at this point when it is witnessing serious insecurity.
“Our government places the traditional rulers in high place, so make sure you work hard and sustain the peace in your domains.
“We appreciate you for the support before, during and after the election. This was massive. I want to assure you that Mr. Governor will never disrespect you. He won’t do anything that will make you hate him.
“I could see that you are requesting for new vehicles, I will report back to the Governor. I know Mr. Governor won’t allow you to be traveling about in ram shackled cars. Though, we are witnessing paucity of funds, but I know that our government will do something when our finances improve.
“The other time you spoke about your sitting allowance, I had told Mr Governor about this and I know that all your requests will be attended to one after the other”.