Ajah Residents Protest Against Planned Imposition of Traditional Ruler, Seek Governor’s Intervention

Residents of Ajah, a community in Lagos State, have raised concerns over the alleged imposition of a traditional ruler on their community. On Monday, December 9, 2024, members of the Ajah community staged a peaceful protest at the Lagos State Governor’s Office in Alausa, Ikeja, calling on Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to intervene in the contentious issue to avert a potential crisis.

Background and Grievances

This marked the second protest by the Ajah community within two weeks, following a similar demonstration at the Lagos State House of Assembly on November 28. The General Secretary of the Ajah Community, Kazeem Odunlami, led the protesters, emphasizing the community’s firm opposition to the planned imposition of an external traditional leader.

Odunlami argued that the move contradicts the customs and traditions of Ajah, where the Baale (Olomodi) of Ajah has served as the traditional leader for over 300 years. He stated, “No traditional ruler outside the community has ever ruled Ajah, and it will not change now.”

Call for Rule of Law

The protesters appealed to Governor Sanwo-Olu, lauding his administration’s adherence to the rule of law and commitment to peace. Odunlami warned that ignoring the community’s concerns could lead to unrest, stating:

“When the state of anarchy emerges, there will be no peace. We are begging the state government to save our souls from this imposition to avoid communal clashes.”

The protesters also noted that the chieftaincy title of those attempting the imposition has no historical or cultural association with Ajah’s leadership.

Government’s Response

Addressing the protesters, the Director of the Office of Political, Legislative, and Civic Engagement in Lagos State, Mr. Ayodeji Haruna, assured them that their grievances would be communicated to the governor. He urged the community to remain calm, pledging that the matter would be resolved promptly.

“We are happy that you staged a peaceful protest. Very soon, the matter will be attended to,” Haruna stated.

Implications

The ongoing dispute underscores the delicate balance between tradition, governance, and communal harmony in Lagos State. The Ajah community’s plea reflects a broader concern about preserving cultural heritage and avoiding politically motivated interference in traditional systems.

The outcome of this matter will serve as a test of Governor Sanwo-Olu’s ability to mediate in such sensitive local disputes while upholding the principles of fairness and justice. For now, the Ajah community awaits decisive action to ensure peace and respect for their cultural autonomy.