Monarchs who take sides risk being dragged into political conflicts

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has warned traditional rulers across the state against openly taking sides in partisan politics, saying monarchs who align themselves with political parties or candidates risk being dragged into political conflicts.

Makinde urged the monarchs to remain neutral ahead of the 2027 general elections and continue to serve as fathers to all political interests within their domains.

The governor spoke on Saturday during the commissioning of the reconstructed palace of the Eleruwa of Eruwa, Oba Samuel Adegbola, where he and his wife were installed as Aare Asoludero and Yeye Asoludero of Ibarapaland respectively.

Makinde said the traditional institution occupies a sensitive position in society and must remain a unifying force regardless of political differences.

He urged traditional rulers to accommodate all political candidates who approach them for royal blessings and support, stressing that they should not be seen to favour one candidate over another.

“Traditional rulers should accommodate all political candidates who come to them for royal blessings and support,” he said.

“They should not be seen to have favourites among the political contenders.”

According to the governor, monarchs must remain accessible and impartial to all political actors because of the confidence and respect communities place in the traditional institution.

“Your position as traditional leaders requires you to remain accessible and impartial to all,” Makinde said.

He cautioned that personal political preferences should not interfere with the broader responsibilities of traditional rulers, noting that their primary duty should be to promote peace, stability and development within their communities.

The governor said traditional rulers should remain above partisan contests because “they are fathers to all,” adding that their palaces should remain open to political actors regardless of their parties or candidates.

Makinde further stressed that openly aligning with political interests could undermine the confidence of residents who regard monarchs as neutral arbiters and fathers of their communities.

While calling for political neutrality among traditional rulers, the governor disclosed that he would personally embark on vigorous campaigns across Nigeria for his presidential ambition ahead of the 2027 elections.

“I will vigorously campaign for my presidential ambition across the country,” he said.

Makinde, however, maintained that his political aspiration should not affect the expected neutrality of traditional rulers, urging them to treat all political actors fairly.

He urged the monarchs to use their influence to promote peace and stability rather than allow themselves to be drawn into political rivalries.

The governor’s remarks come as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections, with politicians expected to increasingly seek the support and endorsement of influential traditional institutions across the country.