…Warns Against Unforeseen Crisis
Human Rights Monitoring Agenda (HURMA) has called for immediate calm and strict adherence to the rule of law regarding the escalating chieftaincy dispute in the Abule-Eko, Ijede community of Ikorodu, Lagos State.The rights group raised the alarm during its popular weekly radio program, Labe-Ofin: Rule of Law, broadcast on Bond FM 92.9.
According to HURMA, the intervention became necessary following a flurry of distressed complaints from local residents. Community members expressed deep fears over alleged plans by certain factions to install a new Baale (traditional ruler), despite the authentic and recognized Baale still being alive and on the throne.
Addressing listeners and stakeholders, HURMA cautioned the Oba (Kabiesi) of the kingdom and all involved parties to operate strictly within the bounds of the law.
The organization warned that bypassing established traditional and legal protocols to install parallel authorities is a recipe for chaos.
The Danger of Parallel Authorities
HURMA’s Executive Director, Comrade Buna Olaitan Isiak, emphasized that maintaining the sanctity of traditional institutions is vital for grassroots stability.
“The rule of law must be supreme in all our communities,” Isiak stated. “We cannot have parallel authorities in one locality. This is precisely how communal conflicts start. We strongly urge dialogue, patience and absolute respect for existing structures.”
Traditional leadership disputes in Lagos State have historically triggered protracted legal battles and, in severe cases, civil unrest. HURMA noted that proactive adherence to due process is the only way to safeguard the peace in Ikorodu.
Next Steps: Mediation and Fact-Finding
In a bid to de-escalate the tension before it boils over, HURMA announced plans for an on-the-ground intervention.
The rights group has promised to dispatch a delegation to visit the Abule-Eko community in the coming days.
The upcoming visit aims to mediate between the aggrieved factions and the traditional council. Document the core grievances and legal claims of all parties involved and engage key stakeholders, including community elders and local authorities, to reach an amicable, lawful resolution.
Reaffirming its core mandate, HURMA reiterated its unwavering commitment to defending human rights, promoting anti-corruption and ensuring that grassroots communities across Lagos enjoy sustainable peace, equity and justice.
In this article