Osun 2026: Oba Ọlẹẹgbẹ of Akingbade Ipoye Ife Kingdom Calls for Peace, Warns Against Political Violence
From Our Correspondent
As political activities increase ahead of the August 15, 2026, Osun State governorship election, the Ọlẹẹgbẹ of Akingbade Ipoye Ife Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Oba Abdul Yakeen Zakariyah Fakowajo Adekayaoja, has appealed to youths and residents of Ile-Ife to reject violence and promote values of peace, unity, and responsible citizenship.
The monarch made this appeal during an interview with journalists at his palace, expressing concern over rising political tension in parts of the state, and emphasizing that no political ambition should disrupt the peace and stability Osun has enjoyed. His call coincides with broader appeals from stakeholders for peaceful campaigns and issue-based politics before the election.
Oba Fakowajo urged young people not to let themselves be exploited as tools of violence by desperate politicians, warning that those who incite violence often go unpunished while innocent youths suffer the consequences.
He stated, “The future belongs to our youths, and they must not mortgage that future because of temporary political gains. Elections will come and go, but the peace of our communities must be preserved.”
The traditional ruler called on political parties, candidates, and their supporters to carry out their campaigns with dignity, mutual respect, and tolerance, emphasizing that healthy political competition should never escalate into violence or the destruction of lives and property.
He further urged parents, religious leaders, and other traditional rulers across Osun State to keep educating young people about the importance of obeying the law before, during, and after the election.
Oba Fakowajo also praised security agencies and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for their preparations for the governorship election and encouraged them to stay professional, impartial, and dedicated to ensuring a free, fair, and credible electoral process.
The royal father expressed belief that, with collective effort from all stakeholders, Osun State would once again prove its reputation as one of Nigeria’s most peaceful states by conducting a violence-free governorship election.
He prayed for ongoing peace, progress, and development in Ile-Ife, Osun State, and Nigeria overall.
