Protest In Lagos Over Alleged Imposition Of Traditional Ruler

Some aggrieved persons stormed the Lagos State House of Assembly on Thursday to voice their dissent against the appointment of a traditional ruler in the Ajah region of the state.

Naija News learnt that the group, consisting of members from the Ajah community, contended that the matter concerning the Obaship of Ajah is currently under judicial review and urged the Lagos State Government to adhere to the court’s ruling and preserve the existing situation.

The protesters displayed placards and banners to convey their discontent with the government’s actions.

They asserted that no individual possessed the necessary historical or legal qualifications to assume the title of Oba of Ajah, emphasizing that the only officially recognized chieftaincy in Ajah is that of the Baale (Olomodi) of Ajah.

The protesters warned that the imposition of an Oba in Ajah could incite disorder and disrupt the rule of law within the community.

During the protest, Kazeem Odunlami, the Secretary General of the Ajah Community, remarked that the government’s decision was inconsistent with the cultural and traditional values of their community.

He said, “The Lagos State Government should save our souls in Ajah town. All the families in Ajah say no to the superimposition of a kind on us. The obaship of Ajah is still pending in court in suit No LD/6432GCMW/2019. Please, allow the court to determine who is entitled to become the Oba of Ajah before enthroning anyone as such.

“The decision to impose a king over the Baale of Ajah is an alien to our culture and tradition. The rulership of Ajah lies on the Baale of Ajah. We should have a pedigree to that. The obaship tussle is still before the court. We have sustained an injunction and it should be respected. We want Chief Ismaila Adeleke, who is the Baale of Ajah, to be upgraded as King.”

The demonstrators further asserted that the Baale of Ajah had governed the community for more than 300 years, emphasizing that this was an integral part of their culture and tradition.

In response to the protesters, Bonu Samson, the lawmaker for Badagry Constituency 1, praised their peaceful assembly and promised to communicate their concerns to the House.

“We appreciate your peaceful conduct,” Samson said.

“We will ensure this matter is addressed amicably, but we urge you to remain law-abiding and patient.”

Also addressing the protesters, the lawmaker representing Surulere Constituency 1, Desmond Elliot, pledged that the House would consider the matter during its next plenary session.

He noted that the assembly would not interfere with the ongoing court proceedings.

“I heard your grievances, and the House will deliberate on them,” Elliot said. “But we must respect the judiciary’s role and not interfere in matters under litigation,” Elliot noted.