The traditional ruler of Kweme kingdom in Badagry, Lagos State, Oba Sejiro James, the Aholu of Kweme has installed Alhaji Mohammed Umar as the Seriki Fulani of Badagry.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the installation ceremony was graced by all Fulani socio-cultural organisations in the South-West and neighboring Republic of Benin.
Presenting him with the traditional staff and beads at Sito Gbethrome Community along Semé expressway, Badagry, James said the Fulani are peace loving people.
“Though the stool you are on is too high, you have been endorsed by God today and He will be guarding you,” he said.
The traditional ruler urged the new Seriki Fulani to always be on top of situations in Badagry communities.
According to him, they have been issues between pastoralists and farmers in Badagry but God has always been in control.
He urged him to have in his cabinet, someone who would represent him in some other communities in Badagry so that he would be on top of the situation of things.
Alhaji Saidu Yusuf, the Chairman, APC, Arewa Communities in Lagos state, urged Fulani and Yoruba to join hands to achieve their goals of unity and growth.
Yusuf said they should put politics apart and work for development of their communities.
Alhaji Mohammed Laba, the Seriki Fulani of Abeokuta and Chairman, Meyiti Allah, South-West said the installation of such leaders played great roles in resolving conflicts.
“One of our own is being installed, we are happy we are in Badagry. This is from grassroots and it will spread to everywhere.”
He urged the new Seriki to ensure that pastoralists residing in communities in the area shunned hideous crimes or harbouring criminals.
“We want peaceful relationship 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 said.
Alhaji Aminu Dogara, the Chairman, Arewa Council of Chiefs, Lagos, state, said his people would continue to remain committed to the welfare and well-being of all and sundry in the state.
The Aholu of Dale Whedako, Aholu Olusegun Wheto, prayed that God would give the new Seriki the wisdom to rule his people.
In his address, the new Seriki Fulani assured that he would work to address the pressing issues of poverty, education and healthcare of his people.
According to him, we must also preserve our cultural heritage and traditions, while embracing innovation and progress.
Umar pleaded with his people to follow the rules, terms and conditions given to them for cow rearing and also support Badagry people.
He promised to continue to work to promote the interest of their culture and ensure everyone lived in peace and harmony.
NAN reports that other traditional rulers at the installation are Oba Adekanmi Oyekanmi, the Alapa of Apa kingdom, traditional chiefs, representatives of Nigeria Police and Army, and other important personalities in Badagry and Lagos. (NAN)
