“If You Want To Play Politics, Then You Should Be Ready To Be Treated As A Politician- Makinde
By Aliyu Oyewole
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 issued the warning on Saturday while speaking at the newly commissioned palace of the Eleruwa of Eruwa, Oba Samuel Adebayo Adegbola Ajobo Olurin I, during the monarch’s first coronation anniversary and the conferment of the honorary chieftaincy title of Aare Asoludero of Ibarapaland.
The governor urged traditional rulers to remain politically neutral and focus on their traditional responsibilities, particularly the promotion of peace, unity and development in their respective domains.
According to him, the traditional institution occupies a sensitive position in society and must not be dragged into partisan political contests, stressing that monarchs are expected to serve as fathers to all political actors and residents regardless of their political affiliations.
Makinde cautioned that traditional rulers who decide to openly participate in partisan politics should be prepared to be treated as politicians rather than solely as custodians of traditional institutions.
He said, “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.”
The governor maintained that his administration had continued to respect and support the traditional institution in Oyo State, assuring monarchs that such support would be sustained. He, however, clarified that the government’s support should not be interpreted as an invitation for traditional rulers to become partisan actors.
Makinde’s warning comes amid increasing political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections, with political parties, aspirants and their supporters already beginning mobilisation and engaging influential individuals and traditional institutions across the country.
He also urged traditional rulers to continue promoting peaceful coexistence and supporting initiatives aimed at improving the welfare and development of their subjects.
The governor described the traditional institution as an important pillar of governance, particularly at the grassroots, saying its role in maintaining stability and fostering development should be protected from unnecessary political divisions.
Makinde further called for issue-based campaigns ahead of the 2027 elections, urging political actors to avoid character assassination and political blackmail.
He advised prospective candidates to focus on presenting their programmes, policies and agenda to the electorate rather than engaging in personal attacks.
The event, which marked the Eleruwa’s first year on the throne, attracted traditional rulers, political leaders, government officials and other dignitaries who gathered to celebrate the monarch and honour distinguished individuals in Ibarapaland.
