Masari urges preservation of traditional institutions
FOR House of Representatives Speaker, Alhaji Aminu Bello Masari, the traditional institutions should be safeguarded by all arms of government as part of efforts to protect democracy.
The speaker disclosed this on Monday while thanking the Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuade, for conferring on him the chieftaincy title of Akinjagunmohi.
Masari noted that governments come and go while individual play their parts, but institutions remain.
As a result, he urged Nigerian leaders to do all within their powers to ensure that traditional institutions remain, adding that efforts should be geared towards promoting native values.
According to the speaker, the chieftaincy title conferred on him was a laudable means of bridging the divides created by ethnic diversities and assured Sijuade and the entire people of Ile-Ife that he would live up to their expectations.
In his remarks, the Ooni said the conferment of the title on Masari was based on his sterling leadership qualities and contributions to nation-building.
The ceremony which took place at the oba's palace was attended by eminent personalities including Senate President Adolphus Wabara, Osun State Governor Olagunsoye Oyinlola, members of the National Assembly and the diplomatic corps, traditional rulers, among others.
Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Media and Publicity, Abike Dabiri, told journalists at the venue that the speaker deserved the honour because he is a detribalised Nigerian.
She added that his leadership qualities and patriotic attitude towards issues have also helped to stabilise the House.
Another member of the House of Representatives, Dotun Animashaun, said the event further demonstrated the entry of the South-West into the mainstream of Nigerian politics, adding that it would also help bridge the gap created by ethnic divides.
