The Aholu of Kweme Kingdom, Oba Sejiro James, has officially installed Alhaji Mohammed Umar as the Seriki Fulani of Badagry in Lagos State.
The ceremony, which took place in Sito Gbethrome Community along the Semé expressway, drew Fulani socio-cultural leaders from the South-West and neighboring Benin Republic.
During the event, Oba James presented Alhaji Umar with traditional staff and beads, symbolizing his authority.
While addressing the gathering, the monarch emphasized the peaceful nature of the Fulani people and expressed confidence in Umar’s leadership.
“Though the stool you are on is too high, you have been endorsed by God today, and He will be guarding you,” Oba James said.
The royal father urged Umar to remain vigilant in resolving community challenges, particularly issues involving pastoralists and farmers.
He also encouraged the new Seriki to appoint representatives across various Badagry communities to ensure effective communication and promote harmony.
Chairman of the APC Arewa Communities in Lagos, Alhaji Saidu Yusuf, called for unity between Fulani and Yoruba communities, stressing that collaboration should take precedence over political differences.
“We should put politics apart and work for the development of our communities,” he advised.
The Seriki Fulani of Abeokuta and Chairman of Meyiti Allah in the South-West, Alhaji Mohammed Laba, emphasized the importance of traditional leadership in fostering peaceful coexistence.
“One of our own is being installed, we are happy to be in Badagry. This is grassroots, and it will spread everywhere,” Laba noted. He also encouraged the new Seriki to discourage criminal activities among pastoralists, ensuring peace with host communities.
Laba added, “We want peaceful relationships 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.”
Alhaji Aminu Dogara, Chairman of the Arewa Council of Chiefs in Lagos, reaffirmed the commitment of Arewa leaders to supporting the welfare of all residents in Lagos State.
Prayers were offered by Oba Olusegun Wheto, the Aholu of Dale Whedako, who wished the new Seriki Fulani wisdom to lead effectively.
In his acceptance speech, Alhaji Mohammed Umar outlined his priorities, including addressing poverty, education, and healthcare while preserving cultural traditions.
“We must preserve our traditions while embracing innovation and progress,” Umar declared. He further urged his people to respect community regulations concerning cattle rearing and to actively support Badagry’s development.
“I will continue to work to promote our cultural interests and ensure peace and harmony for all,” he assured the gathering.
The event saw the attendance of notable figures, including Oba Adekanmi Oyekanmi, the Alapa of Apa Kingdom, traditional chiefs, and representatives from the Nigeria Police and Army.
