Chief Alani Bankole, an Egba leader and father of a former Speaker of the House of Representatives, has issued a warning to coronet Obas of the Egba Traditional Council in Ogun State, urging them to stop harboring kidnappers within their domains.
Bankole made the statement on Saturday following his installation as the Apena of Egbaland at the palace of the Alake and paramount ruler of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo.
During his inaugural address, the newly installed Apena expressed concern about the increasing insecurity in Egbaland, particularly the incidents of kidnapping. He emphasized that it is highly detrimental for any traditional ruler to allow kidnappers to operate freely within their territories.
Bankole stated, “It’s suicidal for any Oba to allow kidnappers in their area. From now on, you have to be very careful. If I have my way and Kabiyesi allows me, any Oba who allows kidnappers to operate in his area will be arrested because you know about them.”
He called upon the traditional rulers to collaborate with the Alake, a retired military officer, to eliminate criminals from Egbaland. Bankole also urged the youth to take action and uphold the legacy of the Egbas in leadership positions.
Addressing the Egba youths, he emphasized the importance of preserving the community’s history of producing exceptional lawyers, presidents, and speakers of the House of Representatives. Bankole urged the youth to awaken and ensure that the achievements and reputation of the Egbas continue to thrive.
Bankole expressed his loyalty and commitment to the development of Egbaland and promised to support the Alake in his endeavors.
Distinguished guests in attendance at the event included former Ogun State governor and Senator representing Ogun East, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, his predecessor Chief Segun Osoba, former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dimeji Bankole, and the immediate past High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Sarafa Ishola.
