Land grabbing: Abiodun warns traditional rulers, charges new Odemo on devt

By James Ogunnaike, Abeokuta

Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State on Tuesday issued a stern warning to traditional rulers across the state to steer clear of land grabbing and other criminal activities capable of undermining peace and industrial growth of the State.

The governor gave the warning during the installation of Oba Peter Oluwole Ogunbayo as the 38th Odemo of Isara Remo in Remo North Local Government Area, stressing that his administration would not condone any act capable of hindering development.

Represented by the State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Ganiyu Hamzat, Abiodun reiterated the government’s zero tolerance for illegality, particularly in land matters.

He said, “At this point, I want to swiftly inform Kabiyesi of the Land Grabbing Prohibition Law in Ogun State, which forbids land grabbing and wanton allocation of lands for personal gains. Government will not tolerate any traditional ruler found culpable in such acts.”

The governor charged the newly installed monarch to mobilise his people towards complementing government efforts at driving socio-economic development in Isara Remo and the wider Remoland, urging him to uphold integrity, promote peace, and respect the rule of law.

He noted that traditional rulers remain critical stakeholders in grassroots governance and development, adding that their roles are pivotal in sustaining harmony and progress within their domains.

Abiodun also called on the monarch to support ongoing efforts to curb illegal land dealings, while encouraging residents to embrace civic responsibility and back government initiatives, especially in boosting internally generated revenue.

In his acceptance speech, Oba Ogunbayo expressed appreciation to God, the state government, and the people of Isara Remo for the trust reposed in him, pledging to prioritise unity, development, and inclusive leadership.

“I believe the establishment of this legacy hospital will have a lasting impact on our community, providing essential medical services and creating job opportunities for our citizens,” the monarch said, while commending the governor for siting the project in Isara Remo.

He assured that his reign would align with the state’s development agenda, with focus on infrastructure, education, youth empowerment, agriculture, and social welfare.

The monarch also acknowledged the support of the Akarigbo of Remoland, Oba Babatunde Adewale Ajayi, in his emergence and installation.

The ceremony climaxed with the presentation of the staff of office, formally installing Oba Peter Oluwole Ogunbayo as the 38th Odemo of Isara Remo, amid prayers for a peaceful and prosperous reign.

Dignitaries at the event included former President Olusegun Obasanjo, the Olota of Ota, Oba Adeyemi Abdulkabir Obalanlege, Princess Adesola Ayoola Elegbeji, and other prominent traditional rulers, political leaders, and stakeholders from across Ogun State and beyond.

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