Prince Okunjimi Odimayo, All Progressives Congress, (APC) candidate for Irele/Okitipupa Federal Constituency in 2023 general election has urged the Federal Government to engage the traditional rulers in more active roles of security and maintainance of peace in their dormans.
The politician gave this advise in a statement through his media adviser, Mr Yemi Akintomide on Monday in Irele while congratulating some newly elevated traditional rulers by Gov. Oluwarotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State.
The state government, had on Aug 25 upgraded no fewer than 23 traditional rulers from grade C to grade B and from grade B to grade A in the three senatorial district of the state.
Odimayo while congratulating the Halu of Ode-Aye, Orungbewa of Erinje, Ahaba of Ajagba, Odogbo of Ominla and Larogbo of Akotogbo who were elevated in Okitipupa and Irele, also commended Akeredolu for the historic feat.
Odimayo, who was excited over the elevations of the monarchs also charged government on more roles for traditional rulers in governance and grassroots development.
“As a Prince who lived my adolescent years inside Olofun of Irele palace; I know what it takes for a royal father to preside over customs and norms of his people, and also in attracting investment and development to his kingdom.
“Our royal fathers are the custodians of all our traditions, customs and norms who are closer to the grassroots and need special recognition and role in governance, security and peaceful coexistence among the people.
“I profoundly thank our dutiful Governor for the giant stride and great honour done on our revered traditional institution in the state through the upgrading of our royal fathers.
“I specially congratulate the Halu of Ode-Aye, Orungbewa of Erinje, Ahaba of Ajagba, Odogbo of Ominla and Larogbo of Akotogbo, may your new elevated positions bring lots of developments, in both human and material resources to your domains,” he said.
Odimayo, however, urged the traditional rulers to continue playing fatherly roles and support for Akeredolu and his cabinet members to attract more dividends of democracy to the people at the grassroots.
APC chieftain urges FG to engage traditional rulers on active roles
