Toun Okewale-Sonaiya seeks stronger partnership with traditional rulers to protect women

Bolaji Obabiyi (intern)

The Chair Board of Directors of Women FM Radio State, Toun Okewale-Sonaiya on Thursday sought support of Ogun State Traditional Rulers towards strengthen the protection of women and girls at all levels.

Penpushing reports that Okewale Sonaiya made the appeal during her presentation at the meeting of the Ogun State Traditional Council held at Obas complex, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, the state capital.

The female gender advocate equally called for sustained collaboration between monarchs and advocacy groups and expressed appreciation for their support in allowing the organisation access to palaces across the state to host town hall meetings focused on issues affecting women and girls.

‎“We are here first to thank our Kabiyesis for accepting us into your palaces to host these town hall meetings. This would not have been possible without your support and belief in addressing issues affecting women and girls in our communities’, she said.

Penpushing further reports that she explained that beyond appreciation, the organisation was seeking the blessing and approval of traditional rulers for a long-term and sustainable partnership, stressing that the initiative should not be treated as a one-time engagement.

‎“We desire a long-term collaboration with all traditional institutions. We are requesting your commitment to continuity through sustained engagements that will strengthen family and community bonds’, Sonaiya added.

Penpushing also reports that she urged the royal fathers to integrate Women Radio and its advocacy platform into their annual cultural and community activities, including festivals and coronation anniversaries.

The renowned broadcast journalist explained that such inclusion would deepen community awareness on the protection of women and girls, strengthen grassroots advocacy, and ensure consistent messaging across local communities.

“We humbly request that Kabiyesis invite Women Radio to be part of your yearly activities such as coronation anniversaries and cultural celebrations. By doing this, we will deepen awareness, strengthen advocacy, and ensure continuous protection for our mothers and daughters,” she said.

Penpushing reports that Okewale-Sonaiya emphasised that traditional rulers, as custodians of culture and leaders closest to the people, play a crucial role in shaping societal values and addressing harmful practices affecting women

The Chief Executive Officer of Women Radio 91.7FM, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to working closely with traditional institutions to build safer and more inclusive communities across Ogun State.‎

‘We remain committed to working with our royal fathers to ensure that our communities become safer and more supportive for women and girls,” she stated.

Penpushing further reports that Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, earlier addressing the royal fathers at the meeting apologised to them for the inconveniences experienced during the recent commissioning of the Gateway International Airport at Iperu

‎The governor explained that the situation arose from strict security protocols associated with the visit, stressing that it was not intended to undermine the importance of the royal fathers.

“I sincerely apologise to our revered royal majesties and Highnesses for the inconveniences caused. When the President visits, security arrangements are heightened and strictly enforced, sometimes without regard for status’ he said.

Penpushing also reports that Abiodun pointed out that even a visiting governor was, at a point, denied access into a venue due to security restrictions, underscoring the rigidity of the measures.

The Governor, however, commended the Chairman of the Ogun State Council of Obas, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle, for his leadership and the continued support of traditional rulers in promoting peace and development in the state.

Penpushing reports that he emphasised the critical role of traditional institutions in maintaining security, describing them as key partners in intelligence gathering, conflict resolution, and community sensitisation.

The Governor stated that sustainable development can only thrive in a peaceful environment, noting that the state’s growing industrial expansion is a reflection of improved security and stability

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