The traditional rulers from the six Southwest states also endorse state police, defend fuel subsidy removal and call for continuity in federal government reforms.
Traditional rulers from the six Southwest states have declared their support for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election in 2027, insisting that the presidency should remain in Southern Nigeria in the next electoral cycle to sustain the principle of power rotation.
The monarchs made their position known in a 10-paragraph communiqué issued after a meeting of the Council of Obas and Traditional Rulers of the Southwest at the Olubadan Palace, Oke-Aremo, Ibadan, Oyo State. The communiqué was read by the Alake of Egbaland, Oba Aremu Gbadebo, alongside the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Olaoye, and the Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, Oba Rufus Aladesanmi. No fewer than 22 monarchs from Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ondo and Ekiti states signed the document.
The council said rotational presidency had contributed to political stability, inclusiveness and national unity, stressing that retaining the presidency in the South would promote fairness, mutual trust and national balance. It also commended the Tinubu administration’s policies, reforms and infrastructure projects, urging traditional rulers across the region to mobilise their subjects in support of government programmes.
On security, the monarchs endorsed the proposed establishment of state police, describing it as a strategic measure to strengthen internal security. They also urged traditional rulers to sensitise youths to take advantage of potential employment and service opportunities that could emerge from the initiative.
The council further expressed support for the Federal Government’s position on fuel subsidy, arguing that its reintroduction would undermine long-term economic development and fiscal sustainability. It also called for stronger cooperation between the Southwest, Northern Nigeria and other regions to promote peace, national cohesion and development.
The monarchs condemned electoral violence, intimidation and vote-buying, calling for peaceful, free and credible elections at all levels. They also appreciated Tinubu for establishing new military brigades in Oyo State, saying the development would strengthen the region’s security architecture and protect lives and property.
The traditional rulers reaffirmed their commitment to regular consultations on issues affecting the welfare, security and development of the Southwest and Nigeria, while urging citizens to remain law-abiding and work towards a peaceful and prosperous country.