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By Lukman Olabiyi
The Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu, has urged parents and guardians to take greater responsibility in checking the rising tide of drug abuse among young people in the country.
The monarch gave the charge on Sunday when he received members of the Igunuko masquerade adherents at his palace in Lagos.
Speaking during the visit, Oba Akiolu expressed concern over the increasing involvement of youths in substance abuse, warning that the trend poses a serious threat to families and the future of society.
He stressed that parents and guardians must be more vigilant about the company their children keep, their activities, and the values they are exposed to.
According to the monarch, early guidance, discipline and moral upbringing at home remain critical tools in preventing young people from falling into drug addiction and other social vices.
Oba Akiolu also commended the Igunuko Adherents for promoting cultural heritage and peaceful coexistence, noting that traditional institutions and cultural groups have a role to play in shaping the character of the younger generation.
He called on community leaders, religious bodies and government agencies to work together with families to create awareness and provide support systems that would help youths stay away from drugs and lead productive lives.
The visit of the leadership of the Igunuko masquerade to the palace of the Oba of Lagos marked the formal commencement of this year’s Igunuko festival and reaffirmed the deep cultural and spiritual bonds between traditional institutions and indigenous heritage in Lagos.
Explaining the significance of the visit, the Nddaso of Lagos and Head of the Igunuko Masquerade, Oloye Musibau Olukotun, said the delegation came to pay homage to the Oba of Lagos as a mark of respect and loyalty to the throne before the start of their annual festival.
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According to him, seeking the blessings and approval of the monarch is a long-standing tradition that symbolizes unity, continuity and reverence for the ancient customs of the land.
Olukotun described the Iguniko masquerade as one of the oldest and most revered cultural institutions in Lagos, noting that it plays a vital role in preserving the spiritual and cultural identity of the people.
He explained that beyond its colourful displays and performances, Iguniko represents a powerful spiritual force believed to protect the community, cleanse the land of negative influences and promote peace, harmony and moral discipline among residents.
He added that the festival also serves as a platform for educating the younger generation about their roots, traditions and values, while strengthening communal ties among indigenes and visitors alike.
In addition to its spiritual importance, Olukotun said the Igunuko festival contributes significantly to cultural tourism, attracting spectators from different parts of the country and boosting economic activities in Lagos.
According to him, by paying homage to the Oba of Lagos, the Iguniko adherents were reaffirming their commitment to uphold the customs of the land and to carry out their annual rites in line with traditional laws and royal authority.
He expressed appreciation to the Oba for his continued support of indigenous culture and prayed for a peaceful, successful and spiritually rewarding Iguniko season for Lagos and its people.
