Seyi Makinde, governor of Oyo, has warned traditional rulers in the state to remain apolitical, insisting that the throne must be neutral and be a father to all.
Makinde spoke on Saturday in Eruwa during the first coronation anniversary of Samuel Adegbola, the Eleruwa of Eruwa.
According to NAN, the governor was conferred with the chieftaincy title of Aare Asoludero of Ibarapaland at the event.
He said traditional rulers must steer clear of politics and embrace all political actors without bias if they want to maintain the respect accorded to their traditional institutions.
“The traditional institutions should accept us all as their children,” he said.
“But any traditional institution that interferes in politics, we will insult them. If they can cross into politics, we will abuse them.”
Speaking on his presidential bid, Makinde, the APM flagbearer in the 2027 election, said he is ready to traverse the length and breadth of Nigeria in pursuit of his ambition and seek the support of Nigerians.
Makinde said his aspiration to lead Nigeria would not be confined to any particular region, stressing that he is prepared to take his message of good governance and development to Nigerians across the country.
“My presidential bid will require me to engage extensively with the people and present my vision for a better Nigeria to citizens in different parts of the country,” he said.
The governor also expressed appreciation to the Eleruwa and the people of Ibarapaland for the honour, describing the conferment of the title as a recognition that came with responsibility.
He said the honour would further strengthen his commitment to serving the people and contributing to the development of the country.
The Eleruwa said the honour bestowed on Makinde was in appreciation of his numerous achievements and giant strides across the state.
He pledged, on behalf of all the traditional rulers in Ibarapaland, that they would continue to support Makinde’s administration.
He also presented developmental requests from Ibarapaland to the governor, expressing confidence that the administration would continue to address them.
Among the requests were more road projects and other infrastructure development projects.
Also speaking at the event, Debo Ogundoyin, speaker of the Oyo state house of assembly, described Makinde’s administration as the best Ibarapaland has experienced since Nigeria’s return to democracy.
Ogundoyin commended ongoing projects, including the Ido–Eruwa road and inner roads in Eruwa, noting that they had renewed confidence that no community would be left behind.
The event attracted traditional rulers, political leaders, government officials, and other dignitaries.
