The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, has appealed to political parties, candidates, supporters and residents of Osun State to ensure a peaceful and violence-free governorship election in 2026.
The monarch made the appeal on Thursday while receiving the All Progressives Congress, APC governorship candidate, Bola Oyebamiji, and members of the party’s campaign council during a courtesy visit to the Ooni’s Palace in Ile-Ife.
Oba Ogunwusi urged all political stakeholders to conduct peaceful campaigns and place the state’s stability above partisan interests.
He also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for improvements in Nigeria’s security efforts, citing the recent rescue of abducted students and teachers in Oyo State as evidence of renewed commitment to tackling insecurity.
The Ooni called on the APC to remain united throughout the electioneering period, describing unity as the foundation for electoral success and sustainable development.
He extended the same appeal to other political parties, warning against violence, intimidation and actions capable of disrupting Osun’s tradition of peaceful coexistence.
He encouraged eligible voters to participate in the election without fear and urged all stakeholders to uphold the Yoruba values of Omoluabi, including integrity, discipline, tolerance, respect and peaceful conduct.
The monarch also prayed for peaceful elections and continued peace and prosperity in Osun State and Nigeria.
Speaking on behalf of the APC campaign council, its Director-General, Oluwole Oke, said the party chose Ile-Ife for the inauguration of its mega campaign because of the city’s historical and spiritual significance.
APC governorship candidate Bola Oyebamiji assured the Ooni that, if elected, his administration would prioritise the development of Ile-Ife through road rehabilitation, renovation of public primary schools, establishment of a modern market, improved security, better primary healthcare, enhanced workers’ welfare and investments to boost electricity supply.
He also pledged to strengthen agriculture through increased support for farmers and agricultural value chains, while promising regular consultations with traditional rulers.
