The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, has appealed to political parties, candidates, supporters and residents of Osun State to ensure a peaceful and violence-free governorship election in 2026.
The monarch made the appeal on Thursday while receiving the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate, Bola Oyebamiji, and members of the party’s campaign council during a courtesy visit to the Ooni’s Palace in Ile-Ife.
Oba Ogunwusi, who is also the Permanent Chairman of the Southern Nigerian Traditional Rulers Council (SNTRC), urged all political stakeholders to conduct their campaigns peacefully and place the state’s stability above partisan interests.
He also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as improvements in Nigeria’s security architecture, particularly the recent rescue of abducted students and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
The monarch said the successful rescue operation demonstrated the Federal Government’s renewed commitment to addressing insecurity across the country.
The Ooni called on the APC to remain united throughout the electioneering period, saying, “Unity remains the foundation for electoral success and sustainable development.”
He extended the same message to other political parties participating in the Osun governorship election.
He warned politicians and their supporters against violence, intimidation and any actions capable of disrupting Osun State’s tradition of peaceful coexistence.
The monarch also urged eligible voters to exercise their democratic rights without fear or intimidation.
Oba Ogunwusi encouraged all stakeholders to uphold the Yoruba values of Omoluabi, which promote integrity, discipline, tolerance, respect and peaceful conduct.
He also prayed for peaceful elections, divine guidance for political leaders, and continued peace and prosperity in Osun State and Nigeria.
Speaking on behalf of the APC campaign council, Director-General Oluwole Oke said the party deliberately inaugurated its mega campaign in Ile-Ife because of the city’s spiritual and historical significance.
He said, “We recognise Ile-Ife as the source, which is why we have come to seek royal blessings. Our party believes in fulfilling its promises and remains committed to delivering good governance to the people of Osun State.”
Responding, Oyebamiji assured the Ooni and residents of Ile-Ife that the ancient city would receive special attention under his administration if elected.
He pledged to “rehabilitate major roads, including the Enuwa–Fajuyi and Aderemi–Ondo Road corridors, rebuild dilapidated public primary schools, establish a modern market, strengthen security, improve primary healthcare, prioritise workers’ welfare and attract investments to improve electricity supply.”
The APC governorship candidate also promised to boost agriculture through increased investment in farmers and agricultural value chains.
He assured traditional rulers of regular consultations if elected.
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