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Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has warned traditional rulers in the state against taking sides in politics, saying the institution must remain neutral and serve as a father figure to all.
Makinde spoke on Saturday in Eruwa during the first coronation anniversary of Samuel Adegbola, the Eleruwa of Eruwa.
The governor urged traditional rulers to welcome political actors without discrimination, saying their neutrality was necessary to preserve the respect attached to traditional institutions.
He cautioned that rulers who choose to become involved in partisan politics should expect strong criticism from his administration, saying the government would “insult” or “abuse” traditional institutions that cross into politics.
“The traditional institutions should accept us all as their children,” he said.
“But any traditional institution that interferes in politics, we will insult them. If they can cross into politics, we will abuse them.”
Makinde, who is the APM flagbearer for the 2027 presidential election, also spoke about his ambition to lead Nigeria, saying he was prepared to travel across the country to present his vision and seek the support of Nigerians.
He said his campaign would involve extensive engagement with citizens in different parts of the country and would focus on his plans for improved governance and development.
“My presidential bid will require me to engage extensively with the people and present my vision for a better Nigeria to citizens in different parts of the country,” he said.
At the event, the governor was conferred with the chieftaincy title of Aare Asoludero of Ibarapaland by the traditional institution.
Makinde thanked the Eleruwa and people of Ibarapaland for the honour, describing the title as a recognition that also carried responsibility. He said it would strengthen his commitment to serving the people and contributing to the country’s development.
The Eleruwa said the title was bestowed on Makinde in recognition of his achievements and contributions across Oyo State.
He pledged the continued support of traditional rulers in Ibarapaland for the governor’s administration and presented development requests from the area, including additional road and infrastructure projects.
Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Debo Ogundoyin, also praised Makinde’s administration, describing it as the best Ibarapaland had experienced since Nigeria returned to democracy.
Ogundoyin cited projects such as the Ido-Eruwa road and inner roads in Eruwa, saying the developments had strengthened confidence that no community would be left behind.
Traditional rulers, political leaders, government officials and other dignitaries attended the event.
