Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has issued a blunt warning to traditional rulers in the state against openly participating in partisan politics ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Makinde said any monarch who chooses to become involved in partisan political activities should be prepared to be treated as a politician rather than as a traditional ruler.
The governor spoke on Saturday at the newly commissioned palace of the Eleruwa of Eruwa, Oba Samuel Adebayo Adegbola, during the monarch’s first coronation anniversary and the conferment of the honorary chieftaincy title of Aare Asoludero of Ibarapaland.
Makinde told traditional rulers to remain above partisan politics and concentrate on their traditional responsibilities, particularly maintaining peace, unity and development within their domains.
He said monarchs should act as fathers to all political actors and residents, regardless of their political affiliations.
In his words, “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 also used unusually strong language in warning monarchs who cross the line into partisan politics, saying he would “abuse” any traditional ruler who interfered in politics.
Makinde maintained that the traditional institution occupied a sensitive position in society and should not be dragged into partisan political contests.
He said his administration had continued to respect and support traditional rulers across Oyo State, but warned that such support should not be interpreted as encouragement for monarchs to become partisan political actors.
The governor’s comments come as political activities begin to intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections, with political parties, aspirants and their supporters already positioning themselves and seeking the backing of influential individuals and institutions.
Makinde urged traditional rulers to use their positions to promote peaceful coexistence and initiatives that would improve the welfare of their people.
