The Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, on Saturday commended the role of traditional rulers in ensuring development, peace and security of the country.

He gave the commendation at Shagamu, Ogun, during the 25th coronation anniversary of Oba Michael Sonariwo, the Akarigbo of Remo and Chairman, Ogun State Council of Obas and Chiefs.

Osinbajo recalled how the Oba settled the brewing rift between some indigenes of his town and some settlers from the Northern part of the country.

He said the monarch ``must be praised for the manner and wisdom displayed in quick resolution of the dispute,’’ adding that there had not been any further altercation between the indigenes and settlers.

``This has been responsible for the peace that we have enjoyed in this kingdom,’’ he added.

Osinbajo said the government owed `a lot of gratitude’ to the Oba for the role he played in ensuring that the Federal Government established National Youth Service Corps Camp in Shagamu as well as the establishment of teaching hospital in the town.

The VP recalled the period in the past when the kingdom was disturbed by the activities of bandits.

He expressed satisfaction that with the help of the Oba, banditry was reduced to its barest minimum through the vigilance group he set up to protect the people.

He observed that `enormous’ economic and social development had been recorded in Remo during the reign of Oba Sonariwo.

``Your time has been a time of peace and prosperity for us as this town has gained tremendous prominence,’’ Osinbajo declared.

In his address, the monarch recalled how he lost his property and the palace he inherited to hoodlums due to his mission to fight the criminals who then constantly raided houses with impunity.

He criticised the poor economic situation in the country and urged the government to take urgent steps to redress the situation.

He said he believed in the education of the youth which necessitated the granting of scholarships to brilliant children at all levels by the town’s development association.

The Oba said he still craved for the creation of an Ijebu State from the present Ogun to fast-track development in the territory.

In his remark, Governor Ibikunle Amosun of Ogun extolled the leadership attributes of the Oba and wished him many more successful years on the throne.

He promised that all the projects started by his administration in Remo would be completed before the end of the administration.

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who presided over the cutting of the anniversary cake, also hailed the monarch for his numerous achievements. (NAN)

•Photo shows VP Osinbajo.

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