The Alaafin of Oyo, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Engineer Abimbola Akeem Owoade 1, has cautioned community heads against acts capable of undermining peace, stability and progress of their domains.
In a release by his Director of Media and Publicity, Bode Durojaiye, Alaafin gave the warning on Thursday at the Aganju ForeCourt, in the ancient Palace of Oyo, through his Queen Consort, Ayaba Abiwunmi Olajumoke , during the installation of new Baale of Oke- Omo, Chief Waheed Oladejo Ajani Kangudu.
Oba Owoade said “community heads must be peace-conscious because they are the foundation of community stability, economic growth, and local governance. In traditional and rural societies, the village head is not just a political figure, but the primary custodian of culture, security, and community cohesion. When a village head prioritizes peace, the entire community thrives”.
He stated that conflicts often lead to the destruction of property, farms, and infrastructure, adding that peace preserves these vital community assets.
A peace-minded community head, the Paramount Ruler noted, fosters an environment where minority groups, settlers, and natives coexist harmoniously.
When a village is peaceful, residents are more willing to cooperate on communal projects like building schools, clearing roads, or securing the area.
A commitment to peace ensures the community head of a leader remains a neutral, trusted arbiter who resolves conflicts through dialogue rather than force.
Oba Owoade, therefore, urged the people of Oke Omo community to rally round their new head for purposeful administration, in the overall interest of all.
In his response after the installation, Chief Ajani Kangudu, who assured the Alaafin of unalloyed allegiance, pledged to make peace as cornerstone of his administration.
Packaged by Dare Raji
