Ooni of Ife Urges Peace Ahead of Osun Election
The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has strongly counselled political figures and their loyalists in Osun State to reject electoral violence and maintain tranquility. The royal admonition comes as the state prepares for its crucial gubernatorial election scheduled to take place on August 15.
Key Highlights
- Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi called for peaceful conduct ahead of the August 15 gubernatorial poll.
- The Imole Campaign Council received royal blessings during a visit to the monarch’s palace.
- Political actors were cautioned against using hate speech capable of destabilizing the state.
- The campaign council pledged its commitment to a non-violent, orderly electioneering process.
The revered monarch delivered this guidance while hosting the leadership of the Imole Campaign Council at his ancestral palace in Ile-Ife. The council is currently spearheading the re-election bid of the incumbent Governor, Ademola Adeleke.
Led by Prof Wale Oladipo, the former National Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party, the delegation visited the sovereign to secure royal blessings before launching its official campaign initiatives.
Several high-profile figures accompanied Oladipo, including Kola Adewusi, the Deputy Governor of Osun State, and Lere Oyewumi, the Deputy Minority Leader of the Senate. Bamidele Salam, representing the Ede North, Ede South, Egbedore, and Ejigbo Federal Constituency, and Mr Kolapo Alimi, the Commissioner for Information, were also present.
While speaking to the visiting group, Oba Ogunwusi emphasized that the collective interest of Osun State supersedes any individual or partisan ambition. He further implored politicians across all factions to refrain from inflammatory rhetoric and actions that could jeopardize regional stability.
The monarch noted that global observers are monitoring the situation in the state, making it imperative for citizens to demonstrate their peaceful nature. He reiterated that structural harmony must not be disrupted by political contests, reminding the delegation that leadership is ultimately a divine assignment.
Responding on behalf of the campaign organization, Oladipo affirmed that the group remains dedicated to an orderly electoral process. He assured the traditional ruler that their supporters would not participate in any form of disruption.
Future Outlook
As the August 15 vote approaches, the appeal from the Ooni of Ife sets an authoritative benchmark for political engagement in Osun State. Security agencies and independent observers are expected to monitor the campaigns closely to ensure all political parties adhere to these non-violent principles. The conduct of the political class in the coming weeks will determine whether the state can execute a peaceful democratic transition.
FAQs
When is the Osun State governorship election scheduled to take place?
The gubernatorial election in Osun State is scheduled to hold on August 15.
Who led the campaign delegation to the Ooni of Ife’s palace?
The Imole Campaign Council delegation was led by Prof Wale Oladipo, the former National Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party.
What was the core message delivered by the Ooni of Ife?
The Ooni of Ife urged all politicians and their supporters to reject violence, avoid hate speech, and safeguard the peace of Osun State, emphasizing that the state is larger than any political interest.
