The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, has called for a peaceful and violence-free Osun State governorship election in 2026, urging political parties, candidates, and residents to prioritize stability over partisan interests. The monarch made the appeal during a courtesy visit by the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate, Bola Oyebamiji, and members of the party’s campaign council to the Ooni’s Palace in Ile-Ife on Thursday. As Permanent Chairman of the Southern Nigerian Traditional Rulers Council (SNTRC), Oba Ogunwusi emphasized the importance of peaceful campaigns and warned against violence, intimidation, and actions that could disrupt Osun’s long-standing tradition of peaceful coexistence.
He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for recent improvements in Nigeria’s security, particularly highlighting the successful rescue of abducted students and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State. The Ooni said this operation demonstrated the Federal Government’s renewed commitment to tackling insecurity across the nation. He urged all political stakeholders, including the APC and other parties, to remain united and focused on the state’s development, stressing that “unity remains the foundation for electoral success and sustainable development.”
Oba Ogunwusi encouraged eligible voters to exercise their democratic rights without fear or intimidation, and called on all participants to uphold Yoruba values of Omoluabi—integrity, discipline, tolerance, respect, and peaceful conduct. He also offered prayers for peaceful elections, divine guidance for political leaders, and continued peace and prosperity for Osun State and Nigeria as a whole.
On behalf of the APC campaign council, Director-General Oluwole Oke explained that the party chose to inaugurate its mega campaign in Ile-Ife due to the city’s spiritual and historical significance. “We recognise Ile-Ife as the source, which is why we have come to seek royal blessings,” he said, adding that the APC remains committed to delivering good governance and fulfilling its promises to the people of Osun.
In response, Bola Oyebamiji assured the Ooni and residents of Ile-Ife that the ancient city would receive special attention if elected. He pledged to rehabilitate major roads such as the Enuwa–Fajuyi and Aderemi–Ondo Road corridors, rebuild dilapidated public primary schools, establish a modern market, strengthen security, improve primary healthcare, and prioritize workers’ welfare. He also promised to attract investments to improve electricity supply and boost agriculture through increased support for farmers and agricultural value chains. Oyebamiji further committed to regular consultations with traditional rulers if elected.
The Ooni’s appeal comes at a critical time as Osun State prepares for its 2026 governorship election, with political campaigns set to intensify in the coming months. His call for peace and unity underscores the role of traditional leadership in maintaining social harmony during electoral periods. As stakeholders gear up for the contest, the message from Ile-Ife serves as a reminder that democracy must be exercised with respect, responsibility, and a shared commitment to peace.
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