Protesters on Thursday stormed the Lagos State House of Assembly to express their opposition to the imposition of a traditional ruler in the Ajah area of the state.
The protesters who held placards and banners, to express their dissatisfaction with the government’s decision, claimed that no one had the historical or judicial background to become the Oba of Ajah and that the only recognised chieftaincy in Ajah was the Baale (Olomodi) of Ajah. They noted that the Baale of Ajah had been the ruler of the community for over 300 years and that it was their culture and tradition.
The protesters, comprising members of the Ajah community, also argued that the Obaship of Ajah was still pending in court and that the Lagos State Government should respect the court order and maintain the status quo. They further added that imposing an Oba in Ajah could lead to chaos and the breakdown of law in the community.
Speaking during the protest, the Secretary General of Ajah Community, Kazeem Odunlami, described the decision by the government to impose a traditional ruler in Ajah as strange and unacceptable to the culture and tradition 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 any 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.” Kadeem also noted that the people of Ajah have sustained an injunction and demanded that it should be respected. He also highlighted the desire of the indigenes of Ajah stating that they wanted Chief Ismaila Adeleke, who is the Baale of Ajah, to be upgraded as King.”
Addressing the protesters, the lawmaker representing Badagry Constituency 1, Bonu Samson, commended their peaceful demonstration and assured them that their concerns would be conveyed to the House.
“We appreciate your peaceful conduct, we will ensure this matter is addressed amicably, but we urge you to remain law-abiding and patient.” Samson said.
Similarly, 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,” he noted.
