The Oba of Lagos, Rilwan Akiolu, has called on the Lagos State Government to provide stronger institutional and logistical support for traditional rulers, while condemning land grabbing among some traditional leaders in the state.

Akiolu made the call on Sunday during a prayer session held at his palace on Lagos Island to mark the 23rd anniversary of his ascension to the throne.

The monarch said adequate support for traditional institutions would enable traditional rulers to discharge their responsibilities effectively and contribute more meaningfully to the development and stability of Lagos State.

He, however, expressed concern that while the majority of traditional rulers and chiefs remained committed to maintaining order and contributing to the progress of the state, some had allegedly turned to land grabbing.

“Majority of the traditional rulers and reasonable chiefs in this state always ensure that things go in order.

“But some of the incurably bad ones, for one reason or the other, best known to them, have chosen to turn themselves into land grabbers, which I didn’t like at all,” Akiolu said.

The monarch urged the government to strengthen traditional institutions by providing the necessary logistical support to those occupying traditional offices.

“I have pleaded and advised the government that you upgrade all these people, give them the logistic support to hold that office,” he said.

According to him, inadequate institutional support could contribute to some traditional rulers resorting to activities such as land grabbing, which he described as contrary to responsible leadership and not in the interest of society.

“It was in the absence of that they resort to land grabbing, which is not in the best interest of any human behaviour,” he added.

Reflecting on his 23 years on the throne, Akiolu expressed gratitude to God for sustaining his reign and recalled his coronation 23 years ago at Enu Owa in Lagos.

He recalled that the late Chief Tajudeen Gbadamosi placed the traditional crown on his head during the coronation ceremony.

The monarch described his reign as one marked by “progress upon progress upon progress”, attributing the achievements to God’s blessings and the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who was the Lagos State Governor at the time of his coronation.

Akiolu also stressed the importance of responsible leadership, urging traditional rulers to consider the consequences of their actions and seek divine guidance in the discharge of their responsibilities.

He said traditional institutions had an important role to play in maintaining peace, order and the cultural heritage of Lagos and should therefore be strengthened to perform those responsibilities effectively.

Meanwhile, the Lagos State Head of Service, Bode Agoro, described Akiolu as a father figure to all and commended his discipline, compassion and commitment to preserving the traditions and heritage of Lagos.

Agoro described the monarch as a firm but compassionate leader who supported people who did what was right and corrected those who deviated from established standards.

“Kabiesi doesn’t suffer fools gladly. He stays on the path of the righteous. If you do well, he will support you. If you don’t do well, he will tell you off,” Agoro said.

According to him, Akiolu’s background as a former police officer had contributed to his disciplined approach to leadership, while his deep knowledge of Lagos history and traditions had made him an important voice in the affairs of the state.

Agoro said the monarch had consistently reminded the government of the need to preserve Lagos’ traditional heritage, particularly during the celebration of Isese Day.

He disclosed that Akiolu had regularly written to the government advocating public recognition of Isese Day, noting that the monarch had remained firm in his commitment to tradition and religion.

Describing Akiolu as an institution in his own right with extensive knowledge of Lagos history, Agoro said the monarch possessed an exceptional ability to recall historical facts and events.

“He has all the facts and figures in his head. Kabiesi will recite and quote dates, times, lawsuits, everything. It’s amazing,” he said.

Agoro prayed for the Oba to enjoy many more years in good health and happiness, expressing optimism that Akiolu’s anniversary celebrations would continue for decades to come.