HRM Oba Kamprudeen Ishola Animashaun, Arolugbade Elepe II, the Oloja of Epe Land flanked by the Pangolin Conservation team in his palace, Epe.
By Babatunde Kaka
EKO HOT BLOG reports that traditional rulers in Epe, Alara of Ilara Kingdom, HRM Oba Dr Olukayode Olufolarin Ogunsanwo; Olu-Epe of Epe Kingdom, HRM Oba Dr Shefiu Adewale and the Oloja of Epe Land; and HRM Oba Kamorudeen Ishola Animashaun, have thrown their weight behind the conservation of wildlife, especially endangered animals in Epe community and it’s environs.
The Royal fathers gave their assurances and support to protect the ecosystem from being depleted by engaging community stakeholders in collaboration with the Pangolin Conservation Working Group of Nigeria (PCWG) and One Health and Development Initiative (OHDI), to carry out sensitisation and advocacy programs of Pangolins.
HRM Oba Dr Shefiu Adewale, Bamgbopa Esinlokun I, the Olu Epe of Epe and the Pangolin Conservation team in a discussion session.
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The PCWG Chairman, Professor Morenikji Olajumoke Abimbola alongside her OHDI counterpart, Dr Kikiope Oluwarore, had on Monday, 17th January 2022, led a team of Pangolin Conservation Advocates to the notable Royal fathers, the Epe LG Chairman, Religious leaders and Market leaders on a courtesy call.
While the Traditional rulers gave their assurances and blessings, the religious and market leaders that were visited pledged their unbridled support towards the success of the cause.
Reacting to the development in the palace of Oba Ogunsanwo, after being briefed on the purpose of the visit, the former Lagos State Internal Revenue Services (LIRS) Boss noted that it was high time Nigeria began to take the conservation of endangered animals seriously based on their biological functions in the ecosystem.
Alara recalled the goodwill enjoyed by wildlife abroad, where they are not endangered, but all animals were protected just like humans. He argued that such should be replicated in Nigeria.
Speaking further, he recalled how Armada Elephants migrated from Omo Forest in Ogun State to some communities in Epe, stating that all efforts must be in place to protect them and forestall human-animal clash.
“One thing that I know and I’m concerned about is the way, we handle our animals. I’m aware that overseas, you dare not touch any of these animals because they are part of the immediate environment. You dare not hunt them because such an act carries a severe penalty.
“If a pangolin can eat up to 70 million ants, termites and other insects per year, then it shows how important they are to the Nigerian biodiversity.
“So, I think the robust program that you have for Epe as one of your pilot areas where you want to start the advocacy and sensitisation is the right step in the right direction. We appreciate this kind gesture and the interest in our community,” he said.
The Royal fathers weren’t oblivious of the fact that the popular “bush meat” is a sought after delicacy in various homes in the town.
They however agreed to assist in the advocacy, while also accepting the ambassadorial offer of the PCWG in partnership with OHDI.
See photos at the meetings:
PCWG Chairman, Professor Morenikeji and HRM Dr Olukayode Olufolarin Ogunsanwo, the Alara of Ilara Kingdom, Epe.
The Iyaloja and Babaloja of Oluwo Chief Market, Epe, in a group picture with the Pangolin Conservation team.
Christian Association of Nigeria CAN President, Pastor Tunde Taiwo flanked by members of the Pangolin conservation team.
Professor Morenikeji addressed Alara of Ilara Kingdom during the visit.
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