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By: Manoah Kikekon
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| The new Seriki of Badagry |
The Aholu of Kweme Kingdom, Oba Sejiro James, has installed Alhaji Mohammed Umar as the Seriki Fulani of Badagry, Lagos State, in other to forster peaceful coexistence.
Leaders of Fulani society and culture from the neighbouring Benin Republic and the South-West region attended the ceremony.
According to NAN on Monday, Oba James gave Umar traditional staff and beads during the installation at Sito Gbethrome Community along the Semé motorway.
Oba Sejiro presenting staff of office to new Seriki Fulani of Badagry
He emphasises the Fulani people's peaceful nature at this point.
“Though the stool you are on is too high, you have been endorsed by God today, and He will be guarding you,” Oba James declared.
He urged Umar to be proactive in resolving issues within Badagry communities, particularly tensions between pastoralists and farmers.
The traditional ruler advised the new Seriki to appoint representatives from various Badagry communities to stay informed and promote peaceful coexistence.
Alhaji Saidu Yusuf, Chairman of the APC Arewa Communities in Lagos, has called for collaboration between the Fulani and Yoruba communities, emphasising unity over politics.
"We should set politics aside and work for the development of our communities," he said.
The Seriki Fulani of Abeokuta and Chairman of Meyiti Allah, South-West, Alhaji Mohammed Laba, emphasised the role of traditional leaders in conflict resolution.
“One of our own is being installed, we are happy to be in Badagry. This is grassroots, and it will spread everywhere,” he remarked.
Laba encouraged the new Seriki to discourage criminal activities among pastoralists.
“We want peaceful relationships with our host communities, who have given us land, which we are enjoying. We have been in this place doing our businesses peacefully without being harmed, and we will give the same in return,” he added.
Chairman of the Arewa Council of Chiefs in Lagos, Alhaji Aminu Dogara, reaffirmed the commitment of Arewa leaders to the welfare of all residents in the state.
The Aholu of Dale Whedako, Oba Olusegun Wheto, prayed for wisdom for the new Seriki Fulani to lead effectively.
In his acceptance speech, Alhaji Mohammed Umar promised to address pressing issues like poverty, education, and healthcare while preserving cultural heritage.
“We must preserve our traditions while embracing innovation and progress,” he stated.
Umar urged his people to adhere to community regulations regarding cattle rearing and support the development of Badagry.
“I will continue to work to promote our cultural interests and ensure peace and harmony for all,” he affirmed.
The event was attended by prominent figures including Oba Adekanmi Oyekanmi, the Alapa of Apa Kingdom, traditional chiefs, and representatives from the Nigeria Police and Army.
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