A Group of Protesters Storms Lagos State House of Assembly to Express Concerns Over a Recent Chieftaincy Appointment
Recently, a group of individuals from the Ajah community in Lagos State visited the Lagos State House of Assembly to express their discontent with the appointment of a traditional ruler in the area.
The protesters, made up of community members, claimed that the issue of the Obaship of Ajah is currently being resolved in the courts and urged the state government to follow the court’s decision and maintain the status quo.
The group employed creative means to convey their message, displaying placards and banners to demonstrate their opposition to the government’s actions.
According to the protesters, only one individual possesses the necessary historical and legal qualifications to hold the title of Oba of Ajah, emphasizing that the only officially recognized chieftaincy in Ajah is the Baale (Olomodi) of Ajah.
The protesters warned that the imposition of an Oba in Ajah could create chaos and undermine the rule of law within the community.
During the protest, Kazeem Odunlami, the Secretary General of the Ajah Community, stressed that the government’s decision was inconsistent with the cultural and traditional values of the Ajah community.
He stated, “The Lagos State Government should prioritize the well-being of the people of Ajah. All the families in Ajah are united in opposing the imposition of authority over them. The obaship of Ajah is still pending in court, so we request that the court determine who is entitled to become the Oba of Ajah before enthroning anyone as such.”
He also emphasized the importance of respecting the Baale of Ajah and his rights, stating that a pedigree is required to assume the title of Oba, and that the obaship tussle is still before the court.
The protesters further asserted that the Baale of Ajah had been the de facto ruler of the community for over 300 years, and that this was an integral part of their culture and tradition.
In response to the protesters, Bonu Samson, the representative for Badagry Constituency 1, praised their peaceful assembly and promised to convey their concerns to the House.
Samson said, “We appreciate your peaceful conduct. We will ensure this matter is addressed amicably, but we urge you to remain law-abiding and patient.”
Desmond Elliot, the representative for Surulere Constituency 1, also addressed the protesters, assuring them that the House would deliberate on the matter during its next plenary session.
He noted that the assembly would not intervene in the ongoing court proceedings, stating, “I have heard your grievances, and the House will deliberate on them. But we must respect the judiciary’s role and not interfere in matters under litigation.”
