The Olowu of Owu, Oba (Prof.) Saka Adelola Matemilola, has expressed concerns over the integrity of some traditional rulers, attributing their questionable conduct to a compromised selection process.
Speaking at the monthly guest forum organized by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ogun State Council, in Abeokuta, the revered monarch lamented that the distortion of traditional selection procedures has led to the enthronement of individuals who lack discipline, culture, and moral uprightness.
“The process of selecting traditional rulers has been compromised in many cases, which is why we now have some indisciplined and questionable individuals occupying the revered stool of our ancestors. A traditional ruler should embody high traditional and institutional values because the people look up to us for direction and leadership,” Oba Matemilola stated.
He emphasized the crucial role of education, social awareness, and economic independence in shaping society, highlighting his personal contributions toward community development. The monarch cited initiatives such as the Olowu Scholars Foundation, which has been sponsoring students for WAEC and JAMB since 2022, the establishment of the Owu Community Library, and various skill acquisition programs.
The NUJ Chairman, Comrade Wale Olanrewaju, expressed appreciation for the monarch’s presence, noting that it was the first of such engagements in 2025.
He commended Oba Matemilola for his commitment to societal development, particularly his promise to provide solar lighting and address other pressing needs at the council secretariat.
Before the media chat, Comrade Olanrewaju and other NUJ executives led the royal father on a tour of the council secretariat, acknowledging his efforts in promoting education and leadership values.
