The Olokine of Ojowo in Ijebu-Igbo, Oba Abdulrasheed Abayomi Banjo, in this interview with GBENGA OLUMIDE speaks about his achievement since his enthronement, among sundry issues during his recent fifth coronation anniversary. Excerpts:
You were one of the Babcock University class 2024 PhD graduates, what informed the decision despite being a monarch?
IT has always been my lifetime ambition to have a doctorate degree in view of my excellent academic antecedents over the years. Therefore, becoming a king couldn’t have stopped my determination; it only enhanced it.
Why did you opt for Energy Economics as a course of study?
When you critically and painstakingly analyse our beloved country Nigeria, you will find out that what has defied solution and has subsequently had a direct influence on our welfare since independence is energy, hence the need to delve into same for possible solution.
What do you intend to do with your PhD after convocation?
First, I will officially inform and present my certificate to the Awujale and paramount ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Kayode Adetona who, despite his age, has continued to openly show unparalleled interest and has been investing in education. By my rough mental estimate, Baba must have spent over N3 billion to support education in Ijebuland. I will also officially notify the Ogun State government through the Ijebu Traditional Council. The purpose is to get state approval to lecture in our public institutions ‘ex grants’ as this will be my contribution to the state in addition to my traditional duties.
You recently celebrated your fifth coronation anniversary and education was given so much limelight, any reason for that?
I have said it many times that the best way to liberate people is to provide qualitative education, reward merit and drive healthy competition. Education is the only means through which the son of nobody can be someone to reckon with without the approval of anybody except God. Olokine is a beneficiary of such grace and posterity will not forgive us if we fail to promote same.
We have witnessed about three editions of Olokine Day and the empowerment that comes with it, we will like to know the motives?
It is not everyone who is privileged to have formal education. Development experts now drive inclusiveness, hence the very reason we empower those who have learnt one trade or the other but are unable to establish, so that they can legitimately earn and also give their contribution to the society . Here, I must thank my friends and the people for the support in this regard.
Since bagging your PhD, what has been the reaction of the Ijebu Council of Obas of which you are the secretary?
The Orimolusi of Ijebu-Igbo, Oba Lawrence Jaiyeoba Adebayo who is our chairman has not only demonstrated commendable love by congratulating me for achieving that feat but also spent huge money to host our council to a special treat to celebrate the achievement. Other members of the council have also followed his path. Ours is one of the best traditional sub-councils in Nigeria where major decisions that will enhance security, economy and welfare of our people are discussed.
What about those who were against your enthronement at the initial stage?
You see, when you have results in whatever you are doing, even your enemies cannot but come to terms with your achievements. As of now, nobody is against my reign because they are happy with the giant strides the community has been experiencing in the last five years. Except those who do not like the progress of the community, and we can only pray that God will change their hearts so that they can place the interest of the community above their personal interest.
What is your reaction to Ogun State governor’s executive order banning traditional rulers from carrying out sales of land?
He is our governor, and the constitution and extant laws of the state have empowered him to do so. He can’t be wrong acting on the law. You know, personally, as an Economist, sale of land by any community is not the best, because you lose your privilege on same when you sell. Land should be treated with the future in mind. Therefore, the governor is in order.
What’s your view about the recent judgment of the Supreme Court on Local Government Authority?
In a constitutional democracy, you cannot criticise the position of the Supreme Court. However, it is impossible to separate a child from the mother without far-reaching implications. We eagerly await its application in our state. My concerns are issues bordering on teachers’ salaries and other first line charges which will have direct impact on the welfare of the local people. Again, time will tell if Nigeria is mature for local government autonomy or not.
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