Abiodun Urges Ogun Monarchs to Rally Support for Peaceful 2027 Elections

Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has called on traditional rulers in the state to use their influence to encourage their people to participate peacefully and responsibly in the 2027 general elections.

Mr Abiodun made this appeal on Tuesday during the inauguration of Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo as the new Chairman of the Ogun State Council of Obas at the Obas’ Complex, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.

The governor asked the monarchs to inform their subjects about the importance of civic engagement. He urged them to promote peace and discourage violence, thuggery, and hatred that could disturb the state’s tranquility before, during, and after the elections.

He described the 2027 elections as a key moment for democracy. He said that democracy is measured not just by votes but also by how peacefully and responsibly citizens exercise their right to vote.

Mr Abiodun emphasized that traditional institutions have a crucial role to play in ensuring that the upcoming elections do not harm the peace and development achieved in the state. He said: "Beyond security, I also called on our royal fathers to continue mobilising our people towards responsible civic participation, particularly as we enter another electoral season."

He added, "Our people should be encouraged to recognise and support the development strides of the government and, when the time comes, translate their appreciation into their democratic choices at the polls."

The governor reminded the monarchs that elections should not be an excuse for violence or division. He said, "We must continue to uphold the peace we have collectively nurtured and participate responsibly in programmes that advance our ‘Building Our Future Together’ agenda."

Mr Abiodun stated that his government has worked to reduce political thuggery and hooliganism in the past seven years. He noted that the recent primary election by the ruling party in the state was peaceful and without crisis.

He praised the traditional rulers for their ongoing support for the government, calling them key partners in keeping the peace, boosting security, and enhancing grassroots development. The governor acknowledged their role in helping security agencies through information sharing and community engagement.

He noted, "Government can provide technology and logistics, while security agencies can deploy personnel, but neither can replace the local intelligence and community knowledge from traditional institutions and citizens."

Mr Abiodun said this collaboration has resulted in positive outcomes, especially in tackling recent security issues in the state. He revealed that security agencies have arrested all suspects linked to the recent kidnapping of students from Gateway ICT Polytechnic, Saapade. He assured residents that the government would not allow criminals to operate freely in Ogun State.

He said: "I commend you for the assistance extended to our security agencies during our recent security challenges. Information obtained through our communities and grassroots structures has enhanced security operations and demonstrated what can be achieved when government, traditional institutions, citizens and security agencies work together."

The governor also urged traditional rulers to make their palaces places of peace and conflict resolution. He asked them to use their wisdom to settle minor disputes before they escalate into bigger problems.

He explained that early intervention by traditional rulers can prevent conflicts and maintain peace in communities. Mr Abiodun mentioned that distributing 60 Sports Utility Vehicles to members of the State Council of Obas is part of his administration's plan to improve the mobility of traditional rulers.

He tasked the new Chairman, Oba Gbadebo, to build on his predecessor's accomplishments by promoting unity among traditional rulers and advancing initiatives for the state’s development.

The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ganiyu Hamzat, praised the traditional rulers for their contributions to peace and community growth. He described them as guardians of Ogun’s culture, noting that their leadership continues to foster peaceful coexistence.

He urged the monarchs to consider the Council's resolutions in the state's best interest. The commissioner also thanked Governor Abiodun for strengthening the partnership between the government and traditional institutions.

In his speech, the new Chairman of the State Council of Obas, Oba Gbadebo, acknowledged Governor Abiodun for the administration’s development efforts statewide. He said these efforts have helped Ogun become a major industrial center in Nigeria.

He praised his predecessor, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle, for his unity and welfare initiatives during his tenure. Oba Gbadebo promised to continue fostering unity within the Council and support government programs that will benefit the people.

Oba Olugbenle’s two-year term as Chairman of the Ogun State Council of Obas ended recently.