Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has distributed 40 brand-new SUVs to traditional rulers as part of efforts to enhance their mobility and strengthen grassroots governance.
The presentation was made on Thursday during the statutory meeting of the Ogun State Council of Obas held at the Oba’s Complex, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.
Governor Abiodun described traditional rulers as critical stakeholders in governance, noting that their proximity to the people places them at the heart of efforts to sustain peace and drive development across the state.
“Our royal fathers remain custodians of our culture and tradition, and they serve as a vital bridge between the government and the grassroots. This gesture is to support your mobility and enhance your capacity to maintain peace and stability in your domains,” he said.
He commended the monarchs for their continued support, which he said has contributed significantly to the success of his administration’s ‘Building Our Future Together’ agenda.
“The relative peace we enjoy in Ogun State today is not accidental. It is a product of the cooperation and commitment of our traditional rulers, and we do not take this for granted,” Abiodun added.
The governor, however, used the occasion to caution against actions capable of discouraging investors, stressing that community hostility could undermine economic growth.
“We have received disturbing reports about the conduct of some communities during engagements with investors. This is unacceptable. These investors are bringing in resources that will create jobs and improve livelihoods—they must be welcomed,” he warned.
He specifically urged traditional rulers to take responsibility for fostering investor-friendly environments within their domains.
“Kabiyesis, I urge you to work closely with your people to create an enabling environment for investors. Development cannot thrive in an atmosphere of hostility and distrust,” he said.
Reiterating his administration’s commitment to economic expansion, Abiodun stressed that investments remain key to job creation and infrastructure development.
“We must position Ogun State as a preferred destination for investment. Any action that discourages genuine investors will not be tolerated,” he stated.
The governor also called for heightened vigilance in the face of security challenges across the country, urging traditional rulers and residents to collaborate with security agencies.
“Security is a collective responsibility. We must remain vigilant and report suspicious activities promptly to sustain the peace we currently enjoy,” he said.
On land administration, Abiodun cautioned against indiscriminate allocation and involvement in disputes, describing land as a critical economic asset.
“Our land is our oil. It must not be allocated carelessly. We must handle land matters with transparency and integrity to attract and retain investors,” he emphasised.
He further warned property owners against renting to criminal elements, noting that any property used for unlawful activities would face strict consequences.
“Any building found to be harbouring criminal activities will be dealt with decisively, including demolition where necessary,” the governor added.
Earlier in his remarks, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Ganiyu Hazmat, said the meeting was convened to address pressing issues of security and development while strengthening collaboration between government and traditional institutions.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the Ogun State Council of Obas and Paramount Ruler of Yewaland, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle, commended the governor’s developmental strides and reaffirmed the support of traditional rulers for policies aimed at economic growth and stability in the state.
