Forum warns Fayose against dragging the revered Olubadan throne into partisan politics, insists the people of Oyo State are capable of assessing government performance and choosing credible leaders.
IBADAN – The Ibadan Royal Advancement Forum (IRAF) has cautioned former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, against dragging the Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja (Arusa I), into partisan political disputes, describing such remarks as unnecessary, provocative and disrespectful to the revered traditional institution.
In a statement issued by the Forum’s Public Relations Officer, Mogaji Ejilola Sefiu Abiodun, IRAF reaffirmed that the Olubadan remains the father of all sons and daughters of Ibadanland, irrespective of political affiliation, and should never be portrayed as belonging to any political camp.
The Forum noted that the Olubadan throne is one of the most respected traditional institutions in Yorubaland, built on the principles of neutrality, fairness, wisdom and service to the people. It stressed that any attempt to politicise the throne or draw the revered monarch into political rivalries is capable of creating unnecessary tension and undermining the dignity of the institution.
According to IRAF, political disagreements should remain within the political arena, while traditional institutions must continue to serve as symbols of unity, peace and stability. The Forum therefore urged political actors to exercise restraint in their public utterances and accord the Olubadan institution the honour and respect it deserves.
The Forum further stated that the people of Oyo State are politically conscious, informed and capable of assessing the performance of any administration based on visible developmental projects, policies and their impact on the lives of the people.
“Oyo people have consistently demonstrated political maturity and wisdom. They neither require political intimidation nor inflammatory rhetoric to determine their future. They are capable of evaluating leadership on the basis of performance, credibility, competence and commitment to the overall development of the state,” the statement read.
IRAF added that it would continue to play a constructive role in enlightening and guiding the people of Oyo State towards supporting leaders who possess integrity, vision, competence and an unwavering commitment to good governance, irrespective of political affiliation.
The Forum concluded by calling on all political stakeholders to embrace issue-based politics, respect the sanctity of traditional institutions and place the collective interest, peace and sustainable development of Oyo State above personal political ambitions.
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