Governor Makinde: Warns Oyo Monarchs Against Partisan Politics

• Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde warned traditional rulers against partisan politics ahead of the 2027 general elections.
• The governor stated that monarchs who openly engage in political activities will be treated as politicians rather than solely as traditional figures.
• Makinde urged traditional rulers to remain neutral and focus on their core responsibilities of promoting peace, unity, and development within their domains.
• The warning was delivered at the newly commissioned palace of the Eleruwa of Eruwa during Oba Samuel Adegbola's first coronation anniversary.
• He emphasized that the traditional institution is a crucial pillar of grassroots governance and must be protected from unnecessary political divisions.

Any traditional leader who openly engages in political activities should be prepared to be treated as a politician rather than solely as a traditional figure.

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde recently issued a clear directive to traditional rulers across the state, cautioning them against active participation in partisan politics, particularly as the 2027 general elections approach. Speaking 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, Governor Makinde underscored that any traditional leader who openly engages in political activities should be prepared to be treated as a politician rather than solely as a traditional figure. This firm stance by Governor Makinde warns Oyo monarchs partisan politics carries direct consequences for their perceived role within the community.

The governor's address, delivered on a Saturday, highlighted the delicate position held by the traditional institution within society. He stressed that this esteemed body should not be drawn into the contentious arena of partisan political contests. Instead, Governor Makinde urged Oyo traditional rulers to maintain strict political neutrality, focusing their efforts on their core traditional responsibilities, which include fostering peace, promoting unity, and driving development within their respective domains. He explicitly stated that if a monarch desires to engage in politics, they must accept being regarded as a politician.

The governor articulated that traditional rulers are expected to serve as impartial figures, acting as fathers to all residents and political actors within their jurisdictions, regardless of their political affiliations. This foundational principle of the traditional institution political role in Nigeria demands a non-partisan approach, ensuring that monarchs remain above the fray of political contention. Makinde reiterated that his administration holds the traditional institution in high regard and is committed to providing ongoing support to monarchs throughout Oyo State.

However, this governmental support, he clarified, should not be misconstrued as an invitation for traditional leaders to become partisan players in the political process. The expectation remains that Oyo traditional rulers political neutrality is paramount for the integrity and effectiveness of their leadership. He further implored these leaders to continue championing peaceful coexistence among their subjects and to actively back initiatives designed to enhance the welfare of the people they serve.

Emphasizing the critical role of the traditional institution as a vital pillar of governance, particularly at the grassroots level, Governor Makinde asserted the necessity of safeguarding it from unnecessary political divisions. This perspective is particularly pertinent in the lead-up to the 2027 elections, where concerns about Nigerian monarchs political involvement often surface. The governor's remarks serve as a pre-emptive measure to ensure the stability and impartiality of these crucial community leaders during the electoral cycle, highlighting the state's firm stance on the political neutrality of traditional rulers.

Beyond the direct warning to monarchs, Governor Makinde also called for a shift towards issues-based campaigns, urging political candidates to present their programs and agendas to the populace without resorting to character assassination or political blackmail. This broader message reinforces the need for a dignified political discourse, complementing the call for traditional leaders to maintain their non-partisan stance throughout the electoral process. The event itself, marking Oba Adegbola's coronation anniversary, saw a significant gathering of traditional rulers, political leaders, government officials, and other prominent Nigerians, underscoring the widespread relevance of the governor's message to a diverse audience across the state.

This article signals the Oyo State government's firm stance on the political neutrality of traditional rulers, which lawyers should consider when advising clients who are traditional leaders or entities engaging with them, particularly regarding potential reputational or administrative risks associated with partisan political involvement.

Source: Original reporting via PUNCH