Sanwo-Olu installs new Lagos community monarch

File: Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu

The Lagos State Government has formally installed Ibrahim Saliu as the Onise of Ise Kingdom in Ibeju-Lekki, urging the new monarch to use his reign to reconcile members of the royal family and unite the community.

The government presented Saliu with the Staff of Office and Instrument of Appointment last Friday, formally recognising him as the traditional ruler of the kingdom following the death of his predecessor, Ganiu Adegbesan.

The presentation was carried out by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Rural Development, Nurudeen Agbaje, alongside the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development, Kikelomo Bolarinwa, with the approval of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the Lagos State Executive Council.

The ceremony drew traditional rulers from across Lagos, members of the royal families, community and religious leaders, lawmakers and other political figures, alongside residents of Ise Kingdom.

Among those present were lawmakers representing Ibeju-Lekki I, Oshodi-Isolo II and Badagry II, Fatai Mojeed, Ladi Ajomale and Setonji Samuel David, respectively, as well as other government officials and traditional rulers.

Agbaje used the occasion to place reconciliation and inclusive development at the centre of the new reign, urging the monarch to extend his hand of fellowship to members of the various royal families and work towards resolving divisions within the kingdom.

He said traditional rulers remained important to maintaining peace and stability at the grassroots and urged the new Onise to deploy his experience and position towards improving the welfare and development of Ise residents.

“Make peace, unity and inclusive development the pillars of your reign,” Agbaje urged the monarch.

He congratulated Saliu on his ascension and expressed confidence that the new ruler would provide the leadership required to advance the kingdom’s peace and prosperity.

The government’s formal recognition of the monarch marks the latest stage in the succession process following the death of Adegbesan.

Bolarinwa said the presentation demonstrated the Sanwo-Olu administration’s commitment to strengthening traditional institutions as partners in grassroots governance and development.

She thanked the governor for approving the presentation and welcomed traditional rulers, community leaders and other dignitaries to the ceremony.