By Dansu Peter The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Badagry chapter, has expressed strong opposition to the purported installation...
By Dansu Peter
The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Badagry chapter, has expressed strong opposition to the purported installation of Alhaji Mohammed Umar as the Seriki Fulani of Badagry, warning that such an act could lead to unrest in the community, report according to Punch Newspaper has suggested
The controversy stemmed from reports that the Aholu of Kweme Kingdom, Oba Sejiro James, allegedly installed Umar during a ceremony held at Sito Gbethrome along the Seme expressway. The event, which attracted Fulani socio-cultural leaders from across the South-West and neighbouring Benin Republic, saw Umar being presented with traditional staff and beads.
However, Oba James, in a press briefing on Monday, denied installing Umar as the Seriki Fulani of Badagry. The traditional ruler clarified that he attended the event as a guest, like other monarchs present, and had no role in the installation.
"I was shocked to read reports claiming I installed a Seriki Fulani. It is not possible for one king, out of the 16 obas in Badagry, to install a Seriki Fulani over the entire region," Oba James stated.
He further explained that the turbaning of the Seriki Fulani was conducted by representatives of the Sarkin Fulani of Lagos and the Chairman of the Council of Fulani Chiefs, Southwest, prior to his coronation as Aholu of Kweme Kingdom.
"The presentation of beads from me was a gesture of recognition, as the Seriki emanated from Sito Gbethrome under Kweme Kingdom. I was not the only king present, nor the only one who advised him during the occasion," he added.
Despite the monarch's denial, the NYCN has rejected the development outright. The council’s chairman, Gboweh Gabriel, said the Badagry youth were displeased with the perceived installation, citing potential security threats.
“People have expressed dissatisfaction, arguing that it is inappropriate for a king to install such a person. Badagry has always been a peaceful community, and this move raises concerns about maintaining that peace,” Gabriel was quoted by Punch to have said. He further emphasized that the youth council is observing the situation and consulting stakeholders to prevent any escalation.
Another youth leader, Deji Ojo, the report said warned that the installation could embolden Fulani herdsmen, potentially triggering conflicts with local farmers and residents.
“The Kweme community may face heightened tensions and insecurity. Such actions could destabilize the livelihoods and overall well-being of the people,” Ojo remarked.
The youths have called on traditional leaders and relevant authorities to address the issue promptly to forestall any crisis.
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