Olugbon of Orile-Igbon, Oba Francis Alao, has advocated constitutional roles for traditional rulers, being the closest to the people at the grassroots level.
Olugbon, Deputy Chairman of the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs, stated this in a statement to congratulate President Bola Tinubu and all Nigerians on the occasion of the 63rd Independence Anniversary.
He described traditional rulers as strategic stakeholders, noting that their advisory role is not enough for the development of the country.
He therefore urged President Tinubu to, as a matter of importance, assign an active role to the traditional institution in his government.
The traditional ruler called for the support of Nigerians for the president and other leaders in the efforts to build a better country for all.
Oba Alao also said the Nigeria of everyone’s dream can only become a reality if and when all citizens work together to reposition the country.
He wrote: “As we celebrate this milestone, we must reflect on the legacies of our past heroes and their sacrifice for the country.
“It is more important than ever to work together to reposition the county to reclaim its lost glory. We all have a role to play in this, from traditional rulers to government at all levels and citizens.
“However, to accelerate the new and better Nigeria that we all want, we must strengthen our traditional institutions.
“Our advisory role is not enough, President Bola Tinubu should as a matter of importance assign an active role to the traditional institution in his government.
“As a strategic stakeholder, we are closer to the people and we know their concerns. For example, the British government did not relegate their monarchical institution to their constitution.
“On another note, we also need to promote our cultural heritage and Made-in-Nigeria products.
“We are great people and blessed as a nation across different ethnic groups with cultural, human, and natural resources.”
He further wrote: “I urge Nigerians to support President Bola Tinubu’s led administration and his ‘Renewed Hope’ agenda, including the developmental agendas of state and local governments.
“It might be challenging today but, in the long run, Nigerians will enjoy the dividends of democracy, considering the effort of the government.
“To actualise some of our great potential, we need to continue to live in unity, seek dialogue, and chart a new course for the country.
“I pray for prosperity and peaceful coexistence for our dear country, by the special grace of God.”
