Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Saliu Adetunji, has called on farmers and herders in the Ibarapa area of Oyo State and Nigeria, in general, to live in harmony for the unity and development of the country.
Adetunji gave the advice at the weekend during the Royal Festival of Praise organised by the Holy Ghost Royal House of Restoration Church in Ibadan.
The event had as its theme: “The gathering of kings to praise the King of kings.” Olubadan, represented by Mogaji Okiti-Aresa, Chief Adeshina Olatunji, said blaming a particular ethnic group for insecurity in the country would only further breed disunity in the country and should not be allowed.
Adetunji called on Nigerians to support the security agencies in the country in tackling criminal activities and refrain from taking laws into their own hands.
The Olubadan also called on religious leaders and traditional leaders to complement the government’s efforts in preaching unity in their various domains and constantly pray for peace and unity of the country.
“As leaders, it does not mean we are above God, traditional rulers, religious leaders should know that they are not God and we must lead our people in a Godly manner,” Oba Adetunji said.
The traditional ruler said that Nigeria needs prayer now more than ever before for the peace, growth and development of the country.
Also speaking at the programme, the Alakola of Akola Ijesa, Oba Festus Adeyemi, said, as traditional rulers, they would continue to do their best in sensitising their people on the need to allow for peace in the country.
Adeyemi called on the youths to be focused and shun acts that would jeopardise the existing unity in the country.
Also commenting, Bishop Donald Oyewande, said the Royal Festival of Praise intends to let the traditional rulers be aware that only God enthrones and needed to be appreciated and praised at all times. Oyewande said that traditional rulers need to learn and gather to pray for their community and as well educate their followers on the need for peace.
The bishop said that traditional rulers must be the eye and ear of the government in their various domains for the development of their communities.