LAGOS, NIGERIA – The Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, the Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State, Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi, and other prominent political and traditional leaders on Tuesday attended the Lagos Baales Forum, where special prayers were offered for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Deputy Governor.
The gathering also served as a platform for discussions on strengthening collaboration between traditional institutions and the Lagos State Government to promote grassroots development, peace, and community engagement.
Represented by the immediate past Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Bolaji Kayode Robert, Dr. Hamzat commended the Baales and traditional rulers for serving as a vital bridge between government and the people at the grassroots.
He reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to supporting traditional institutions by creating an enabling environment for them to effectively discharge their responsibilities.
According to him, traditional rulers remain indispensable partners in governance, playing critical roles in promoting peace, fostering unity, and driving community development across the state.
“The traditional institution plays a critical role in maintaining peace, promoting development, and fostering unity across our communities. The government will continue to support and promote the welfare of our royal fathers,” he said.
In his address, Lagos APC Chairman, Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi, applauded members of the Lagos Baales Forum for their unwavering commitment to grassroots mobilisation and community development.
He assured the traditional leaders that the APC would continue to engage them and consider their views in shaping policies and governance initiatives aimed at improving the lives of Lagos residents.
The Convener of the Lagos Baales Forum, Dr. Seyi Bamigbade, urged community leaders to intensify efforts in mobilising residents to participate in the ongoing voter registration exercise ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He emphasised the importance of civic participation and encouraged residents to support the APC at all levels to ensure continuity in governance and sustain the developmental strides being recorded in Lagos State.
Responding on behalf of the traditional leaders, the Chairman of the Lagos Baales Forum and Oba-Elect of Ijeododo Kingdom, High Chief Abu Jelili Ododo, reaffirmed the forum’s unwavering support for the APC and its leadership.
He pledged that the extensive grassroots network of Baales across Lagos would be fully mobilised to encourage massive voter participation in future elections, describing the traditional institution as an indispensable partner in sustaining peace, unity, and progress in the state.
The event brought together traditional rulers, political leaders, party stakeholders, and community representatives, further reinforcing the shared commitment to strengthening the partnership between government and grassroots institutions for the continued development of Lagos State.
