The Chairman of Ovia South West Local Government Council, Edo State, Mr Anthony Osarobo, has called for a special constitutional role and stronger engagement of traditional rulers to accelerate development at the grassroots.
Osarobo made the call during a familiarisation tour of traditional rulers and communities across the council area.
Speaking at the palace of the Iyase of Udo, Chief Patrick Igbinidu, the chairman said the tour was part of his administration’s efforts to promote development and strengthen ties with traditional institutions and local communities.
Describing the visit to his home community as a “thank-you visit”, Osarobo said granting traditional rulers a constitutional role would enhance development at the local level.
“Traditional rulers are the leaders in our towns and villages. They are the last gatekeepers. They understand the terrain, know the visitors and can identify strangers.
“They also know the needs and aspirations of their people and understand the development needs of their communities,” he stressed.
The chairman said the tour was also aimed at formally introducing his administration to the various communities and soliciting their support and prayers.
He explained that the initiative would strengthen relations with traditional institutions while recognising their support for his administration.
Osarobo appealed to traditional rulers and residents to cooperate with his administration to enable it to deliver on its development agenda.
He also promised to escalate his call for greater empowerment and recognition of traditional rulers to the state and Nigerian Governments.
In his response, the Iyase of Udo, Chief Igbinidu, wished the chairman a successful tenure and urged him to ensure that development programmes were equitably distributed across the local government area.
The chairman was also hosted by the Odionwere of Iguobazuwa and Chief Igbinovia Edward, Oba Olougbe II of Usen.
They congratulated Osarobo on his assumption of office, commended the initiative and offered royal blessings for a successful tenure.
The tour is expected to strengthen cooperation among the council, traditional institutions and communities in advancing grassroots development across Ovia South West.
