The Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu, has said, returning the country to true federalism will enable federating units grow at their pace and place the country on the paths of peace and progress. He said contrary to insinuations in some quarters that true federalism and devolution of powers would breakup the country, he averred that they would rather reduce the tension in the land, give a sense of belonging to all federating units and stabilise the country.

A press statement signed by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Francis Ottah Agbo, noted that, the Oba dropped the hint when the Governor of Bayelsa State, Honourable Henry Seriake Dickson paid him a courtesy call in his Palace on Lagos on Wednesday, October 25.

The Oba congratulated the Governor for the giant developmental strides in Bayelsa State. While praying God to continue to strenghten him, the Royal Father said, he fully supports Governor Dickson's call for true federalism and devolution of power. “I have always supported the call for true federalism. The Federal Government as a father figure should allow the states to have a significant feel of what they produce; that way Nigeria will be stable and peaceful. Nigeria shall not break up and no reasonable person wants this country to break up because it is better we remain together as one country than to split. But for all sections of the country to be happy, we all should have a major say in what we produce in our communities . Anything coming from a particular State, majority of the benefits should go to that same state,” he declared.

He called on the political leadership of the country at all levels, to do what is right for the unity of the country. The Governor thanked the Oba for his kind words, his fatherly support to successive administrations in Lagos State and above all, for making Lagos home for all, irrespective of tribe, religion and Creed.

Governor Dickson also called on Royal Fathers across the country to support the call for true federalism and devolution of power to the federating units, adding that it is by so doing that the unity of the country can stand the test of time!