Protests Erupt In Lagos Over Controversial Appointment Of Traditional Ruler

Protests Erupt In Lagos Over Controversial Appointment Of Traditional RulerOn Thursday, a group of aggrieved residents from the Ajah community gathered at the Lagos State House of Assembly to protest the appointment of a new traditional ruler in their region. The protesters, who carried placards and banners, voiced their strong opposition to the government’s actions, arguing that the matter concerning the Obaship of Ajah is currently under judicial review.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The protesters demanded that the Lagos State Government respect the ongoing court proceedings and maintain the status quo until a legal decision is reached. They emphasized that no individual has the necessary historical or legal qualifications to assume the title of Oba of Ajah. The group reminded the government that the only officially recognized chieftaincy in the area is the position of the Baale (Olomodi) of Ajah.

The demonstrators warned that imposing an Oba on the community could create unrest and undermine the rule of law. Kazeem Odunlami, the Secretary General of the Ajah Community, expressed concern that the government’s decision was incompatible with the cultural and traditional values of Ajah. He stated, “The Lagos State Government should respect our tradition. All the families in Ajah say no to the imposition of a king on us. The Obaship of Ajah is still under judicial review in the case No LD/6432GCMW/2019. We urge the government to let the court decide who is entitled to become the Oba of Ajah.”

Odunlami further explained that the traditional leadership of Ajah has always been with the Baale, a position that has existed for more than 300 years. He called for Chief Ismaila Adeleke, the current Baale of Ajah, to be recognized as the rightful king, urging the government to respect the court’s injunction.

In response to the protesters, Bonu Samson, the lawmaker for Badagry Constituency 1, praised the group for their peaceful protest and assured them that their concerns would be communicated to the House. “We appreciate your peaceful conduct,” Samson said, adding that the matter would be addressed in due course, but urged the protesters to remain patient and law-abiding.

Desmond Elliot, the lawmaker representing Surulere Constituency 1, also addressed the protesters, promising that the issue would be raised during the next plenary session. He reiterated the assembly’s commitment to respecting the judiciary’s role and stressed that the House would not interfere in ongoing court proceedings. “We have heard your grievances, and the House will deliberate on them,” Elliot said. “However, we must respect the judiciary and refrain from interfering with matters that are under litigation.

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