Table of Contents
- Importance of Urban Renewal
- Call to Nigerians
- Decline of Communal Values
- Investment in Security
- Commitment to Integrity
The Oba of Lagos, His Royal Majesty Oba Rilwan Akiolu, has highlighted the significance of urban renewal in Lagos State, emphasizing that such development projects should not lead to the displacement of residents from their ancestral homes.
During a ceremony at his Iga-Iduganran Palace on Sunday, celebrating his 82nd birthday and 22nd anniversary on the throne, the esteemed monarch urged Nigerians to turn back to God, adopt discipline, and reject greed and sycophancy, which he identified as the root causes of the nation's challenges.
Oba Akiolu expressed heartfelt gratitude to God for bestowing upon him the honor of leadership, acknowledging that true leadership requires wisdom, discipline, and a profound sense of spirituality.
“In Lagos and throughout Nigeria, our primary issue is that we have strayed too far from God. Sycophancy, indiscipline, and greed are our greatest adversaries. Greed, in particular, is the source of all evil," he remarked.
“Everything in Lagos, especially within Iga Iduganran, has always been under the guidance of Almighty Allah and the authority of the Oba of Lagos,” he stated.
The monarch expressed concern over the erosion of communal values among Lagos residents, observing that the mutual care and family connections that once characterized the city’s social fabric are rapidly fading.
“We have lost our sense of communal living where relatives genuinely cared for one another. That should not be the case,” he lamented.
“If individuals are relocated for development purposes, they should be permitted to return to their communities once the renewal projects are completed,” he asserted.
Oba Akiolu also urged local government authorities to invest wisely, particularly in security logistics, stressing that enhanced patrol systems, transparency, and accountability would contribute to reducing criminal activities.
He advised the political class to refrain from actions that undermine public trust and to prioritize the welfare of the people over personal interests.
“From today, let us all adopt honesty, sincerity of purpose, and a clear sense of direction. Think positively about others and never look down on anyone,” he encouraged, adding: “Nigeria is a great country and, by the grace of Almighty Allah, it will become even greater.”
Reflecting on his public service career, the former Assistant Inspector-General of Police recounted a meeting with the late Chief Ernest Shonekan during the brief Interim National Government that followed the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election.
“I told him directly that the election which brought Chief MKO Abiola to prominence was a protest against military rule. I cautioned that the interim government would not endure, and shortly thereafter, General Sani Abacha took control,” he recalled.
Reaffirming his lifelong commitment to integrity, Oba Akiolu stated that he served for 32 years in the Nigeria Police Force without ever accepting a bribe.
“I will always stand by the truth, regardless of who is involved,” he declared.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Oba of Lagos's stance on urban renewal?
The Oba emphasizes that urban renewal should not lead to the displacement of residents from their ancestral communities.
What does the Oba believe are the root causes of Nigeria's challenges?
He identifies sycophancy, indiscipline, and greed as the primary issues that have led to the country's challenges.
How does the Oba perceive communal values in Lagos?
The Oba expresses concern over the decline of communal values and emphasizes the importance of genuine care among relatives and community members.
