Makinde Warns Oyo Monarchs Against Open Partisan Politics, Says They Risk Losing Respect

 

By Abdullahi Musa 

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has cautioned traditional rulers across the state against openly identifying with political parties or candidates, warning that such involvement could expose them to unnecessary political attacks.

Makinde gave the warning on Saturday at the grand finale of the week-long first coronation anniversary of the Eleruwa of Eruwa, Oba Samuel Adebayo Adegbola Ajobo Olurin I, in Eruwa, Ibarapa East Local Government Area of the state.

The event also featured the commissioning of the newly renovated Eleruwa Palace and the conferment of chieftaincy titles on Governor Makinde and his wife, Engr. Tamunominini Makinde.

While the governor was installed as Aare Asoludero of Ibarapaland, his wife was honoured as Yeye Aare Asoludero of Ibarapaland.

Makinde urged traditional rulers to preserve the neutrality of the traditional institution, stressing that monarchs should remain unifying figures capable of accommodating people across political divides.

According to him, traditional rulers who openly support political parties or candidates could become targets in partisan disputes and undermine the respect and confidence attached to their offices.

He said any monarch who decides to actively participate in partisan politics should be prepared to be treated as a politician rather than solely as a traditional ruler.

Makinde advised the monarchs to remain accessible to politicians across party lines who seek their blessings, rather than openly endorsing particular candidates.

The governor argued that maintaining political neutrality would enable traditional rulers to continue serving as fathers and impartial arbiters within their communities.

His comments come ahead of the 2027 general elections, amid indications that Makinde may intensify consultations for a presidential bid.

The governor told the gathering that he would soon embark on wider consultations across the country regarding his political ambition, reportedly under the platform of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM).

Makinde also used the occasion to address infrastructure and development concerns raised by stakeholders in Ibarapaland.

He assured residents that the Ido-Eruwa Road would be completed and commissioned in December.

The governor further disclosed that the payment of ₦14.5 billion in counterpart funding to the African Development Bank would resolve the financial challenges delaying the first phase of the Eruwa Farm Settlement project before the end of his administration.

On the request to upgrade the Oyo State College of Agriculture and Technology, Igboora, to a university, Makinde said the government recognised the need for a university presence in Ibarapaland.

He, however, said the proposal would be carefully evaluated, particularly in view of its financial implications.

The governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to infrastructure and human capital development across the state while urging traditional institutions to continue supporting peace, unity and development in their respective communities.