The Local Government Development Initiative (LGDI) has expressed deep concern over removal of two traditional rulers in Osun State, calling on government to stop what it described as the politicisation of traditional institutions and Yoruba cultural heritage.
The organisation, in a press briefing on Saturday in Osogbo expressed concerns over the reported decision of the Osun State Government to remove the Alagunbeelewo of Agunbeelewo and the Olu of Irepodun from their respective stools.
Addressing pressmen in Osogbo, Faith Ayomide Adeniyi, LGDI Spokesperson questioned the Government’s interest in the removal of traditional rulers.
The organisation maintained that traditional institutions should not be subjected to political manipulation, stressing that “They are deeply rooted in Yoruba history, culture, identity and heritage. The traditional institution deserves respect, protection and institutional independence, not arbitrary interference by political officeholders.”
LGDI also recalled the removal of the Akirun of Ikirun, the Aree of Iree and the Owa of Igbajo in 2022, noting that the controversies surrounding the affected traditional stools remain unresolved, with cases still pending before the courts.
It expressed concern that rather than allowing the existing disputes to reach a conclusive legal resolution, the government was reportedly introducing fresh controversies involving other traditional institutions.
On the legal implications of the reported removals, the organisation reminded Governor Adeleke that the powers of the state government over traditional institutions are not unlimited and must be exercised in accordance with applicable laws and established procedures.
Citing Section 36(1) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as amended, LGDI stated that the provision guarantees the right to fair hearing in the determination of civil rights and obligations.
The statement further declared: “The government must demonstrate the legal authority, procedural compliance and legitimate grounds for every decision it takes concerning the appointment, suspension or removal of a traditional ruler. Political authority must never be mistaken for unlimited authority.”
While acknowledging that traditional rulers are not above the law, LGDI insisted that any removal must follow established legal procedures, warning that such processes must not be subjected to “manipulation, political intimidation or selective application.”
Addressing pressmen in Osogbo, also cautioned the governor against using traditional institutions to settle political, personal or communal differences, stating, “Traditional institutions must not become casualties of political disagreements, personal interests or community rivalries.”
LGDI called on the Osun State Government to immediately clarify the circumstances and legal grounds surrounding the reported removal of the two traditional rulers, ensure strict compliance with due process and refrain from further controversial actions against traditional institutions.
It also urged the government to respect pending judicial proceedings concerning the Akirun of Ikirun, Aree of Iree and Owa of Igbajo, while allowing the courts to determine the disputes before them.
The organisation further argued that Osun State has more pressing challenges requiring urgent government attention, including insecurity, unemployment, poverty, infrastructure and economic development.
In its concluding remarks, LGDI urged Governor Adeleke to concentrate on governance, declaring that “We must not allow the politics of today to destroy the cultural heritage inherited from our forefathers.”
It added, “The traditional institution is not the personal property of any governor, political party or government. It belongs to the people, and its preservation is a collective responsibility.”