The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, has called on 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 stability of Osun State above partisan interests.
He also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for improvements in Nigeria’s security architecture, particularly the recent rescue of abducted students and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
The Ooni said the successful rescue operation reflected the Federal Government’s renewed commitment to tackling insecurity across the country. He further called on the APC to remain united throughout the electioneering period, noting that unity is essential for electoral success and sustainable development.
The monarch 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 the state’s tradition of peaceful coexistence.
Oba Ogunwusi also encouraged eligible voters to exercise their democratic rights without fear or intimidation and urged all stakeholders to uphold the Yoruba values of Omoluabi, which emphasise integrity, discipline, tolerance, respect, and peaceful conduct.
Speaking on behalf of the APC campaign council, Director-General Oluwole Oke said the party chose to inaugurate its mega campaign in Ile-Ife because of the city’s spiritual and historical significance.
“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,” Oke said.
In his response, 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, 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, while assuring traditional rulers of regular consultations if elected.
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