Ifelodun Baales Appeal for Better Welfare Support, Say ₦1,300 Monthly Stipend Is Inadequate

The Council of Baales, comprising village heads across Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, has appealed to the state government and the leadership of the local government to urgently review the monthly stipend being paid to traditional village heads in recognition of their responsibilities and contributions to their communities.

The Baales made the appeal while acknowledging what they described as the efforts of the administration of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq at both the state and local government levels.

Speaking on behalf of the council, the Baale of Ayekojo, Elder Mathew Aweda, expressed concern over the ₦1,300 monthly stipend currently received by the village heads from the local government.

According to him, the amount is grossly inadequate considering the responsibilities placed on traditional village heads, particularly their role in maintaining peace, resolving disputes, mobilising residents and serving as a bridge between the government and people at the grassroots.

Aweda said the traditional institution remains an important part of the local governance structure, especially in rural communities where village heads are often the first point of contact for residents seeking intervention in community matters.

He lamented that the current stipend does not adequately reflect the demands of the office or provide meaningful support for the welfare of the Baales.

“We appreciate the good work the present administration is doing at both the state and local government levels. We are not saying nothing has been done. Our appeal is that the traditional institution should also feel the impact of the government’s intervention,”

The Baales appealed to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq and the Executive Chairman of Ifelodun Local Government, Alhaji Femi Yusuf, to look into their welfare and consider an upward review of the monthly payment.

They stressed that their appeal should not be viewed merely as a demand for financial benefit, but as a call for the government to recognise the importance of traditional village heads in sustaining peace, order and community development.

The council noted that Baales frequently perform their responsibilities without adequate resources, despite being called upon to intervene in disputes, attend community meetings, support government programmes and help maintain peaceful relations among residents.

According to the council, strengthening the welfare of traditional village heads would also demonstrate greater recognition of the grassroots institutions that continue to play a vital role in rural administration.

The Baales therefore urged the state and local governments to consider a comprehensive review of the stipend and other forms of support available to them.

They also expressed appreciation to the governor and the local government chairman for their efforts in developing the area, while appealing for the traditional institution to be included more prominently in future welfare and development initiatives.

The council said it remained committed to supporting government programmes and contributing to peace and development across Ifelodun Local Government Area, but appealed for improved welfare to enable its members to continue carrying out their responsibilities with greater dignity and effectiveness.