Steer clear of politics or be treated like politicians – Makinde

Governor Seyi Makinde weekend cautioned traditional rulers across Oyo state to steer clear of partisan politics ahead of the 2027 general election

The governor, who is also the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) presidential candidate for the 2027 general election, gave the caution  in Eruwa while speaking at the 1st year coronation anniversary of the Eleruwa of Eruwa Oba Samuel Adegbola.

Governor Makinde who was conferred with the chieftaincy title of Aare Asoludero of Ibarapaland with his wife, Tamunominini Makinde, as the Yèyé Ààrẹ Asọ̀lúdẹ̀rọ̀ of Ibarapaland, said traditional rulers in the state should remain politically neutral.

He stated that monarchs who openly support political parties or candidates in the state risk exposing themselves to avoidable political attack as well as being treated as politicians.

The APM presidential candidate said traditional rulers should remain neutral and concentrate on their traditional responsibilities, particularly the preservation of peace, unity and development in their domains.

“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. See all politicians as your children.

“If you insult us, we will insult you back as politicians. This  administration had continued to respect the traditional institutions and would sustain its support for monarchs across the state.

“But such support should not be interpreted as an invitation for traditional rulers to become partisan actors in the political process,” he warned.

Governor Makinde added that the traditional institution occupies a sensitive position in the society, hence the need for them not to be dragged into partisan political contests.

The Eleruwa of Eruwa, Oba Samuel Adegbola, said the titles were bestowed in recognition of Governor Makinde’s numerous achievements and giant strides. He described the governor and his wife as “foremost achievers, humanists, core professionals and excellent administrators.”