traditional institution plays key and pivotal role in nation building- Ooni of Ife

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi Ojaja II, believes traditional institution plays key and pivotal role in nation building.

Ogunwusi stated this as Chairman of the “Traditional Rulers Day” activity to mark the Golden Jubilee Anniversary in Port Harcourt on Wednesday.

He said the institution is indispensable, adding that it could not be ignored, and society could not do without it.

When you step into any community to do anything, they are the first people you meet to consult with as leaders; and within the twinkle of eye, they coordinate the whole people.

Thing is, they know their people, they coordinate basic developmental activities in their domains and direct affairs in the communities, he said.

According to Ogunwusi, the institution works closely with politicians and government because it is very important in decision making.

If we all know that we have our role to play and as leaders, we must lead by example and not be found wanting in any way in the society.

We must lead by example in our conducts, in the way we talk and act for  our subjects to follow. If we do this, the society will be a better place,” he said.

The Ooni  said that  traditional rulers had more important roles in the betterment of the society than government.

So, we should see government as our partners in progress. We have our role, they have their role. We are not competitors, he said.

He also said that the institution should work as a formidable force in pursuit of peace, harmony and nation building in Nigeria.