Oyo State says it has concluded a two-day training on peace-building and conflict management for traditional rulers, politicians and other stakeholders in the state.
Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, Dr Wasiu Olatubosun, who made this known in a statement on Saturday in Ibadan said that the event was part of the government’s efforts to further promote harmony between the traditional rulers and political functionaries for accelerated development across the state.
The training, which was organised by the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, was held in Ibadan, the State capital.
Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Mr Olasunkanmi Olaleye, said that timing of the event was apt, considering the forthcoming election.
Olaleye, represented by his Permanent Secretary, Mr Joel Ajagbe, said that the role and relevance of traditional institution in good governance and democratic processes could not be underestimated.
He said that the training was aimed at stemming the tide of rising violent conflicts in some parts of the state and further promoting peace.
“One of the ministry’s major functions is to ensure harmony between the local government political functionaries and traditional rulers, which has been abandoned for decades.
“The present government, under the leadership of Gov. Seyi Makinde granted approval of the training for the local governments in the state to experience reasonable development.
“Traditional leaders are the custodians of cultural values, norms, informal rules, code of conduct and conventional practices that established governance before the colonial era.
“The relationship between them and political functionaries has to be cordial for any development to take place at the grassroots,” he said.
The commissioner further said that the concept of the training was in line with the state government’s initiative for enhancing peace in the state.
On behalf of the political functionaries, the State ALGON Chairman, Sikiru Sanda, said that the strategic training would engender potential for peace between the traditional rulers and political functionaries.
In his remarks, the Okere of Saki, Oba Khaatd Olabisi thanked Governor Seyi Makinde for approving such a remarkable program in a time when Nigeria was preparing for general elections. (NAN)
