Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has warned traditional rulers across the state against openly participating in partisan politics ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Makinde said any monarch who chooses to actively engage in partisan political activities should be prepared to be treated as a politician rather than solely as a traditional ruler.
The governor spoke on Saturday at the newly commissioned palace of the Eleruwa of Eruwa, Oba Samuel Adegbola, during the monarch’s first coronation anniversary and the conferment of the honorary chieftaincy title of Aare Asoludero of Ibarapaland.
Makinde urged traditional rulers to maintain political neutrality and focus on their traditional responsibilities, particularly promoting peace, unity and development within their communities.
“The traditional institution occupies a sensitive position in society and should not be dragged into partisan political contests.
“Monarchs are expected to serve as fathers to all political actors and residents in their domains, irrespective of their political affiliations. Any traditional ruler who chooses to openly participate in partisan politics should be prepared to be regarded as a politician rather than being treated solely as a traditional ruler.”
The governor added:
“If you want to play politics, then you should be ready to be treated as a politician. But if you want to remain a traditional ruler, then stay away from politics.”
Makinde said his administration had continued to respect and support the traditional institution across Oyo State, stressing that such support should not be interpreted as encouragement for monarchs to become partisan participants in the political process.
He described the traditional institution as an important part of governance at the grassroots and urged monarchs to use their positions to promote peaceful coexistence and initiatives that would improve the welfare of residents in their domains.
“The traditional institution remains an important pillar of governance, especially at the grassroots, and should therefore be protected from unnecessary political divisions,” he said.
The governor also called on political actors preparing for the 2027 elections to focus their campaigns on policies and programmes rather than character assassination and political blackmail.
He urged candidates to present their programmes and development plans to voters and allow the electorate to make informed choices based on their respective agendas.
The event attracted traditional rulers, political leaders, government officials and other prominent Nigerians who gathered to celebrate Oba Samuel Adegbola’s first year on the throne and honour him with the Aare Asoludero of Ibarapaland title.
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