Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, has issued a passionate appeal to political parties, candidates, and residents of Osun State, urging them to ensure a peaceful and violence-free governorship election scheduled for August 15, 2026. The monarch made the plea on Thursday, July 16, 2026, while receiving the All Progressives Congress governorship candidate, Bola Oyebamiji, and members of the party’s campaign council at his palace in Ile-Ife.
In a plea that underscored the gravity of the moment, Oba Ogunwusi directly implored politicians to reject violence and bloodshed, declaring that the state's unity and stability must take precedence over partisan ambitions. "There should be no bloodshed in Osun. Politics should be conducted peacefully and smoothly. I beg you with my crown: on election day, vote peacefully. We do not want bloodshed," the monarch said. He further warned against the use of firearms, stating emphatically, "I do not want anyone carrying guns".
The Ooni, who also serves as the Permanent Chairman of the Southern Nigerian Traditional Rulers Council, urged all political stakeholders to conduct their campaigns peacefully and to place the state's stability above partisan interests. He called on the APC to remain united throughout the electioneering period, noting that "Unity remains the foundation for electoral success and sustainable development". The monarch extended the same message of unity and peace to all other political parties participating in the election.
Oba Ogunwusi also used the occasion to commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as improvements in Nigeria's security architecture, particularly the recent rescue of abducted students and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State. He stressed that political competition should never degenerate into hostility, adding that leadership should be pursued as a service to humanity rather than a struggle for power.
In his address, the APC candidate, Bola Oyebamiji, pledged to run an inclusive administration free of nepotism and promised to rehabilitate major roads, rebuild dilapidated public primary schools, establish a modern market, and boost electricity supply through a 3.5-megawatt power plant. He also assured the Ooni and residents that Ile-Ife would receive special attention under his administration if elected.
The appeal from the Ooni comes amid rising tensions and allegations of political violence in the state, with political activities gathering momentum and accusations of sponsored attacks surfacing. The Independent National Electoral Commission has also appealed to the Ooni to deploy his influence to promote peace and credible participation, recognising traditional institutions as indispensable partners in ensuring a transparent and fair electoral process. Oba Ogunwusi assured INEC of his unwavering support and reaffirmed the commitment of traditional institutions to promoting harmony and responsible political engagement.
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