- Former Governor Babatunde Fashola, SAN, praised traditional rulers like Oba Kamorudeen Animashaun and others for their efforts in advocating for their communities.
- Prof. Olanrewaju Fagbohun, SAN, emphasized the need for traditional rulers to have a more defined role in governance, security, and community development.
- An interactive session allowed attendees to engage, ask questions, and gain new insights on leadership and grassroots development.
In commemoration of his 80th birthday and 25th Coronation Anniversary, His Royal Majesty, Oba Kamorudeen Ishola Animashaun, the Oloja of Epe, hosted a thought-provoking lecture on Leadership, Tradition, and Community Development in Contemporary Society at Jubilee Chalet, Epe.
Ekohotblog reports that the event brought together distinguished personalities, scholars, and traditional rulers for a discourse on the evolving role of monarchy in governance and grassroots development.
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Delivering the keynote lecture, former Lagos State Governor and former Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN, commended traditional rulers who have remained vocal and proactive in addressing the needs of their communities.
He acknowledged Oba Kamorudeen Animashaun, Oba Babatunde Ogunlaja, the late Alara of Ilara, and other notable monarchs in Epe and Ikorodu divisions for their contributions to community development and advocacy.
“Leadership is not just about titles; it is about service. Many of our traditional rulers have gone beyond ceremonial roles to actively speak for their people, facilitate development, and ensure peace in their domains.
We must appreciate their resilience and commitment,” Fashola stated.
He stressed the need for stronger synergy between traditional institutions and government authorities, urging policymakers to work closely with traditional rulers to foster sustainable development at the grassroots.
Adding to the discussion, Prof. Olanrewaju Fagbohun, SAN, former Vice-Chancellor of Lagos State University, highlighted the historical significance of traditional institutions in governance and conflict resolution.
He reiterated that ignoring the wisdom and leadership of traditional rulers in contemporary governance has contributed to insecurity and weak community structures.
“Our traditional rulers were once the pillars of governance, the mediators of justice, and the custodians of peace.
We need to return to that system, where they are not just cultural symbols but active participants in governance,” Prof. Fagbohun remarked.
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He advocated for constitutional reforms that would grant traditional rulers a more defined role in governance, security, and community building, rather than being relegated to ceremonial functions.
The event also featured an interactive session, allowing attendees to ask questions and share insights on leadership, tradition, and community development.
