The Kehinde Oshilaja Foundation has expressed concern over the “increasing politicisation of the selection process” for traditional rulers, warning that government interference in matters historically decided by the Ifa oracle could erode cultural authenticity and destabilise communities.
The group’s coordinator, Kehinde Oshilaja, said in a Sunday statement that the trend had caused conflicts in several Yoruba towns.
“Politically-appointed obas may be ignorant of the dos and don’ts of the land, and this ignorance threatens the integrity of our heritage,” the statement said.
The foundation further appealed to traditional rulers to prioritise the welfare of persons living with disabilities, noting that true leadership must combine cultural fidelity with compassion for the vulnerable.
It urged the state and federal governments to respect traditional hierarchies across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, warning that meddling in the appointment of revered monarchs could spark needless tensions.
It also paid tribute to a philanthropist, Orisanla Oseremagbo, celebrating his commitment to community uplift, while calling on other well-to-do individuals to emulate his example in their capacity.
The group prayed for the prosperity of Lagos State and the peace of Nigeria.
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