Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, on Thursday presented 40 brand-new SUVs to traditional rulers across the state, describing the gesture as a token of appreciation for their continued support and contributions to governance.

The governor said the vehicles would not only improve the comfort of the monarchs but also enhance their mobility in maintaining peace and stability within their domains. He reiterated that traditional rulers remain custodians of culture and critical partners in bridging the gap between government and the grassroots.

Speaking at the statutory meeting of the Ogun State Council of Obas held at the Oba’s Complex, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, Abiodun commended the monarchs for sustaining the peaceful environment that has enabled his administration’s “Building Our Future Together” agenda to thrive. He assured them of sustained inclusion in governance.

The governor, however, raised concerns over reports of hostility toward investors in some communities, particularly in Yewa South, Ipokia, and Ijebu North, warning that such attitudes could jeopardize the state’s economic prospects. He urged traditional rulers to foster a conducive, investor-friendly environment, stressing that investments are key to job creation, infrastructure development and overall socio-economic growth.

“We have received disturbing reports about the conduct of some communities during recent investor engagements. This is unacceptable,” he said, noting that investors bringing significant capital into the state must be welcomed and supported.

Abiodun emphasized the responsibility of traditional institutions in ensuring peace and cooperation, adding that development cannot thrive in an atmosphere of distrust. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting investments and warned that actions capable of discouraging investors would not be tolerated.

On security, the governor called for increased vigilance among residents and traditional institutions, urging prompt reporting of suspicious activities. While acknowledging efforts by Bola Ahmed Tinubu to address insecurity nationwide, he stressed the importance of local collaboration in sustaining Ogun’s relative peace.

He also cautioned against indiscriminate land allocation and involvement in land disputes, describing land as a vital economic asset that must be managed responsibly to attract genuine investors.

“Our land is our oil. It must not be allocated carelessly,” Abiodun said, warning landlords against renting properties for criminal activities and adding that any such buildings would face demolition.

In his remarks, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ganiyu Hazmat, said the meeting, its first in 2026, was convened to address pressing issues of security and development while strengthening collaboration between government and traditional institutions.

Also speaking, the Chairman of the Council and Paramount Ruler of Yewaland, Kehinde Olugbenle, lauded the governor’s developmental strides and reaffirmed the council’s support for policies aimed at economic growth and stability.

A major highlight of the meeting was the official presentation of the 40 SUVs to the monarchs to boost their administrative and community engagement roles.