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By: Manoah Kikekon
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| Oba Sejiro James |
Oba Sejiro Olamilekan James, the Aholu of Kweme kingdom in Badagry, Lagos State, denied yesterday the claim that he supports smuggling in Seme and Badagry.
This came after Fisayo Soyombo, an investigative journalist, made a report alleging the involvement of prominent people in smuggling of illicit goods through Badagry border.
He spoke at a news briefing.
According to Oba James, he read online that he was one of the traditional Badagry rulers who encouraged the smuggling of illegal goods into Lagos.
"I have no involvement in illegal activities; I have advised young people in my community to conduct their business in accordance with export and import laws," he stated.
"Anyone found engaging in smuggling should face consequences in accordance with the law."
“For anyone to write that monarchs in Badagry are in support of illegality is insulting and degrading to our kingdoms.
"We may not be as flamboyant and wealthy as other Lagos traditional rulers. But this does not mean we should get involved in smuggling."
The monarch urged the government to provide social amenities and employment opportunities for the people of border communities in Badagry.
“There is no electricity in Badagry-West Local Council Development Area, no company, no job for teeming youths. This is not good enough,’’ he added.