2019 Lagos guber polls: AD pledges support for traditional rulers
Benjamin Omoike l Friday, Dec. 28, 2018
LAGOS, Nigeria – The Lagos State Alliance for Democracy (AD), governorship candidate, Mr Owolabi Salis, says traditional rulers will play advisory role in his cabinet if elected in the 2019 election. Salis said this while addressing newsmen in Lagos after a meeting with traditional rulers in Alimosho Federal Constituency of the state.
He stated that the traditional institution had been relegated, but stressed the need to integrate them into governance.According to him, the traditional institution which is the oldest form of government still has a role to play in governance because of their closeness to people. Salis said he was optimistic that the traditional rulers would mobilise their people for the AD in the coming polls.
“I have been meeting traditional rulers in the state because they are very important people in the society. These include the ‘Obas and Baales’ who are much closer to the people. In our meeting here at Alimosho, most of traditional rulers are supporting me and they promised to work for me. We are going to involve them in advisory capacity when the AD form the next administration.”
The gubernatorial candidate said that the medical attention of the traditional rulers, especially the older ones should be that of the government.
“I am aware of some of them who have challenges and cannot take care of their medical bill. This to me is scandalous, government should be able to care for their need because of the important role they play. We are very conscious of this, so the AD administration will not allow this decadence.
We have to ensure improvement in their life, so that they can perform their natural assignments without hindrance,” he added.
He called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure next year’s election was free and fair in the state. The AD governorship also said he was hopeful that the party would win next year election, stressing that Lagosians wanted to take charge of their commonwealth.
Salis said, “We are going to win the coming election. We are sure that INEC will ensure the process is free and fair. Every vote must count and I am sure the electoral umpire is working in this direction.”
