Lagos monarch to Sanusi: Restore peace to North

The Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu, has called on aggrieved royal families in Kano State to join hands with the Emir of Kano, Lamido Sanusi, to end insurgency and restore peace in the North.

The monarch gave the charge during a courtesy visit by Sanusi to his palace. The visit was Sanusi’s first official visit to Lagos since his assumption of office on Sunday, June 8.

Islamic faithfuls and Hausa youths who heard of the visit had stormed the palace of the Oba of Lagos to welcome the Emir.

Akiolu, who urged Sanusi to support the Federal Government in restoring peace and promoting development in Kano State, said the visit was remarkable because Lagos had always been a home to all tribes of people.

The monarch described the emergence of Sanusi as an act of God, adding that it was important that aggrieved families forget the past and wait for their turn.

He said, “Kano and Lagos share a strong affinity, not only economically, but historically. I have always told my sons that after my tenure as the Oba of Lagos, none of them should expect to be crowned the Oba of Lagos. This is because our family is not the only family that is entitled to the throne.

“Let me appeal to our brothers in the North to accept the new Emir to move the state forward. I can assure you that Sanusi would not support or encourage Boko Haram. This is why I want to call on the aggrieved royal families in Kano State to sheath their sword and forget the past.”

Sanusi, in his remarks, appreciated the Oba of Lagos for his support and reception, adding that he had always looked forward to coming to Lagos because of the historical and economic relationship between the two cities.

“Lagos and Kano have very strong relationships that have lasted for many years. I want to assure you that I will use my office to maintain that friendship in order to advance the interests of the two states.”

Speaking at the event, the Lagos State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mr. Ademorin Kuye, said the visit had further strengthened the economic ties between the two states, adding that those wishing to transact businesses in both states could rest assured that there was no cause for alarm.