…as Buratai seeks recognition of traditional rulers for tackling insecurity
BY TIMOTHY AGBOR, OSOGBO
A traditional ruler in Osun State, Oba Hameed Oyelude Makama, the Olowu of Owu-Kuta, has pleaded with Gov. Gboyega Oyetola and other aggrieved politicians in the state to sheath their swords in the interest of peace and tranquility.
He said continous bickerings by political gladiators in the state would breed tension, which would not fetch the state any good.
Recall that the ruling All Progressives Congress has been experiencing tumult under Governor Oyetola. Intra party crisis has led to the formation of two major camps – Ilerioluwa, said to be loyal to Oyetola and another group loyal to a former governor and current Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola, The Osun Progressives.
He made the appeal on Wednesday at his investiture ceremony as Life Patron of the Osun State Broadcasting Corporation Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists in Osogbo. Oba Makama said he had asked Governor Oyetola to avoid escalation of tension in the state.
Although, the monarch confessed his preference to the governor’s group, Ilerioluwa and the ruling adminstration, he urged all the political gladiators to embrace peace and avoid skirmishes that expose the state to tension.
“I want to appeal to political gladiators from my state governor, down to the last person to sheath their swords. When the Governor (Oyetola) visited me recently, I said he should avoid escalating any form of tension. All the political gladiators surrounding him should allow peace to reign. My suppor to my state and this administration will never be over emphasised. I have preference for Ilerioluwa,” he told the gathering that had Oyetola’s representative and other government functionaries in attendance.
He also charged journalists to unite Nigerians through their reports.
He canvassed for the unity of the country and stressed the need for justice, equity and fairness.
“I want to urge all journalists to unite Nigerians. Nothing pays us as a united entity but there should be justice, equity and fairness. Endeavour to propagate common ideals that will enhance oneness under justice, fairness and equity. I dedicate this honour to Ambassador T.Y. Buratai and Nigeria Army at large,” the traditional ruler declared.
Meanwhile, former Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen T. Y. Buratai (rtd) and the current Nigerian Ambassador to the Republic of Benin, has called for recognition of the traditional institution in the quest for security and peace in the country.
Buratai, who chaired the investiture ceremony, described Oba Makama as a bridge builder whose quest for peace and development in his kingdom and Nigeria was unparalleled. “His patriotism and kind disposition to the military and security agencies in Nigeria is unquantifiable. This and many other qualities endeared him to all Nigerians and peace-loving people across the world,” he said.
The Ambassador added, “I therefore, call for more recognition of our royal fathers and traditional rulers in society given the immense role they play in the society. This will enhance more understanding, peace and security in our country.”
