A diverse group of stakeholders from Oro Kingdom, Kwara State, recently gathered in Lagos to address rising tensions within the community.
The meeting was convened in response to recent clashes that followed the appointment of Oba Joel Olaniyi Oyatoye as the new Oloro of Oro Land.
Key figures from various sectors, including traditional rulers, community leaders, and youth representatives, came together to discuss strategies for restoring peace and promoting unity within the kingdom. The aim of the meeting was to find common ground and work towards a shared vision for the future of Oro Kingdom.
The Sun report tensions had escalated in the kingdom following the announcement of the new monarch, with some factions voicing their discontent.
However, the consensus at the meeting was clear; peace, cooperation, and a collective commitment to progress were essential for Oro’s future.
Dr. Taofik Sanusi, the Chief Imam of Oro Land, opened the proceedings with a heartfelt prayer for the new monarch, urging him to govern with fairness and impartiality.
“Let us see each other as one, regardless of our faith,” he said.
He also promised the support of the Muslim community in Oro, particularly in matters concerning development and unity.
Pastor Raphael Ogunwale, another respected religious leader from the kingdom, echoed same sentiment. Praying for Oba Oyatoye, he called for the people of Oro to embrace each other in harmony.
“It is through peace that Oro will thrive,” he declared.
Toyin Aremu, Senior Special Assistant to Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Transport and an indigene of Oro, also spoke passionately at the meeting. He urged all residents of Oro, irrespective of their personal interests, to prioritize the kingdom’s development.
“We must work together to build Oro into a thriving community. Let us rally behind our new king and support his vision for the betterment of our land,” Aremu said.
Damola Akoshile, a politician from Oro, offered his perspective as well, advising Oba Oyatoye to be cautious of individuals who may seek to manipulate him for personal gain.
Fatai Alagbala urged all Oro indigenes to be united in the interest of progress and prosperity, stating that the success of Oro should be the paramount goal of all. Kamal Adeyemi also implored all the stakeholders to work together as a team in order to champion the cause of unity and progress in Oro. Kehinde Adetola tasked the new monarch on marketing Oro to the world in order to attract foreign investment. He said issues of unemployment, poor infrastructure and education, need urgent attention in Oro and should be looked into by the monarch.
The gathering also saw a heartfelt plea from the Iyalode of Oro Land, Chief Sherifat Kofoworola Okeleye, who called for peace. “Those who are calling for conflict should lay down their arms,” she said. “It is only God who appoints a king. Let us trust His will and come together for the good of Oro.”
In his response, Oba Oyatoye expressed deep gratitude to all those who attended the meeting, vowing to treat all indigenes of Oro with fairness and equality. “I promise to use all my experience, exposure, and resources to uplift Oro Kingdom,” he said.
