Residents of Ajah in Lagos State staged a peaceful protest at the Governor’s Office on Monday, calling on Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to intervene in the proposed installation of a traditional ruler in their community.
The protest, which follows a similar demonstration at the Lagos State House of Assembly on November 28, was led by the General Secretary of the Ajah Community, Kazeem Odunlami. The residents voiced concerns over the potential for unrest if the government proceeds with the imposition of a leader not recognized by the community.
Odunlami stated, “We are here to inform the governor about the planned imposition of a traditional ruler in Ajah. Such actions contradict our customs and traditions, which have recognized only the Baale of Ajah as the community’s ruler for over 300 years. We urge the government to respect our heritage and avoid creating unnecessary conflict.”
He further emphasized that the chieftaincy titles being linked to the rulership of Ajah were historically unrelated to the governance of the community.
Addressing the protesters, the Director of Political, Legislative, and Civic Engagement in Lagos State, Ayodeji Haruna, assured them that their concerns would be presented to the governor. He urged the protesters to remain calm, promising that the matter would be resolved swiftly.
Haruna stated, “Your peaceful approach is commendable, and I assure you that the governor will address this issue promptly. It will not be overlooked.”
The residents reiterated their commitment to maintaining peace and preserving their traditions, urging the state government to take decisive action to prevent any communal clashes.