- Aladeshoyin of Odo-Noforija hosts Lagos State Ijebu Obas in a grand royal gathering
- Monarchs emphasise unity, cultural preservation, and grassroots development
- Forum discusses security, youth development, and 2027 elections
The Aladeshoyin of Odo-Noforija, Oba Babatunde Ogunlaja, on Thursday played host to members of the Lagos State Ijebu Obas Forum in a grand and culturally significant gathering that underscored unity, tradition, and forward-looking leadership among Ijebu monarchs in the state.
Eko Hot Blog reports that the well-attended meeting, held at the palace in Odo-Noforija, brought together royal fathers from Ikorodu, Epe, Ibeju-Lekki, Eredo, Ikosi-Ejinrin, and other parts of Lagos State, creating a strong platform for dialogue, collaboration, and collective progress.
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In his welcome address, Oba Ogunlaja expressed deep appreciation to his fellow monarchs for honouring his invitation, describing the moment as both historic and symbolic for his community.
“It is a great honour for us in Odo-Noforija to host our revered brothers on the throne.
Today is not just about hosting a meeting; it is about celebrating our unity, our culture, and our shared responsibility to our people,” he said.
The Aladeshoyin emphasised the need for sustained unity and cooperation among traditional rulers, noting that collective action remains key to preserving cultural heritage and driving grassroots development.
“We must continue to work together, support one another, and ensure that our communities feel the impact of our unity.
When we stand together, our people become stronger, our culture is preserved, and our future becomes brighter,” he added.
He further commended the leadership of the forum for maintaining consistency through regular engagements, stating that such interactions have continued to strengthen the bond among Ijebu monarchs across Lagos State.
Presiding over the meeting, the Chairman of the Lagos State Ijebu Obas Forum and the Ayangburen of Ikorodu, Oba Kabir Adewale Shotobi, reiterated the vision behind the formation of the forum, describing it as a unifying platform for all Ijebu traditional rulers in Lagos State.
“This forum is part of our commitment to unite all Ijebu Obas in Lagos State, just like the Awori and others have done.
We are one people, and we must continue to stand together for the progress of our communities and our culture,” he said.
Oba Shotobi highlighted the rotational structure of the meetings, noting that it ensures inclusiveness and strengthens the sense of belonging among members.
“We have made it mandatory that the meeting rotates every month so that no monarch will be left behind.
Today, we are hosted by Oba Babatunde Ogunlaja, the Aladeshoyin of Odo-Noforija. Last month, we were in Imota, and by next month, another royal father will host in his domain,” he stated.
He added that the forum provides a family-like platform where monarchs resolve issues internally and speak with one voice on matters affecting their people.
“This platform is created for us to solve issues among ourselves like brothers and to act in unity. When traditional rulers are united, our communities will also be united,” he said.
The Ayangburen further disclosed that key issues deliberated upon during the meeting included security, cultural preservation, youth development, and the forthcoming 2027 general elections.
“We deliberated on important matters, including the 2027 elections. Traditional rulers must continue to promote peace, unity, and stability before, during, and after the elections,” he noted.
He also called on Nigerians to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, citing his contributions to governance and national development.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu played a good role when he was Governor of Lagos State, and he is working to move the country forward. This can only be strengthened if he is supported again,” he said.
The gathering concluded with prayers for peace, unity, and sustained development across Lagos State and Nigeria, reinforcing the critical role of traditional institutions in shaping the socio-political landscape.
