Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has issued a direct warning to traditional rulers across the state to steer clear of partisan politics ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking on Saturday, September 5, 2026, after receiving the chieftaincy title of Aare Asoludero of Ibarapaland at the newly commissioned Eleruwa Palace in Eruwa, Makinde stated that any monarch who steps into the political arena forfeits their royal immunity and should be prepared to face political attacks and open criticism.
Addressing royal fathers, political leaders, and guests at the coronation anniversary of the Eleruwa of Eruwa, Oba Samuel Adebayo Adegbola, Governor Makinde emphasized that traditional institutions must remain sacred and act as neutral fathers to all citizens regardless of party affiliation.
He warned that if traditional rulers want to play politics, they must accept being treated like regular politicians.The governor specifically pointed out that political discourse often involves composing derogatory songs and trading insults, stressing that monarchs must remain non-partisan if they wish to preserve their dignity and avoid public ridicule.
In unusually sharp language, Makinde declared that he would not hesitate to “abuse” or politically confront any traditional ruler who meddles in electoral contests.
The warning comes amid rising political tensions in Oyo State and nationwide as positioning for the 2027 presidential and governorship elections gathers momentum. Governor Makinde is preparing a presidential run against the incumbent President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress (APC). Local political alignments in Oyo State have become increasingly strained, with major traditional figures, most notably the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, reported to be aligning with or supporting President Tinubu and APC structures.
The friction extends down to the Oyo State governorship dynamics, where rival political camps backed by different royal fathers threaten the governor’s local political leverage and succession plans.
By explicitly warning that partisan monarchs invite direct political hostility, Governor Makinde has signaled that royal titles will not protect traditional leaders from harsh political battles as the 2027 contest approaches.
