Ahead of 2027 general elections, the Traditional Chiefs in Ekiti State have expressed the need for peaceful democratic participation and constructive political engagement at the grassroots.
The leaders under the aegis of Association of Ekiti Traditional Chieftaincy Title Holders promised to encourage eligible voters to participate peacefully and freely in the electoral process.
The group which declared its support for the re-election bid of President Bola Tinubu also pledged to mobilise one million votes for the President in the January 16, 2027 presidential election.
The traditional title holders drawn from across 132 towns and villages of Ekiti State made the pladge in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital at a meeting convened by the CEO and Managing Director of Federal Housing Authority (FHA), Hon. Oyetunde Ojo to galvanize support for president Tinubu ahead of 2027 poll.
Speaking at the event, the Chairman of the Association, High Chief Oluwole Ogunsakin commended President Tinubu on his achievements in last for years and urged Nigerians to support him for another term in office.
Ogunsakin explained that the association will use its network which extended beyond the gathering to towns, villages, families and grassroots organisations to ensure the re-election bid come to fruition.
Ogunsakin who described insecurity as one of the most pressing concerns confronting communities, said traditional rulers and chiefs remained closest to the people and were strategically positioned to contribute to grassroots security.
He said, “As custodians of our heritage and respected community leaders, we recognise the importance of peaceful democratic participation and constructive political engagement.
“We shall encourage eligible voters to participate peacefully and make their choices freely at the ballot box. We make this declaration with a strong sense of responsibility. understanding that such an ambitious target will require effective coordination, sustained engagement, and the voluntary support of voters across our communities.
“Security appears to be the most critical concern of the people in Ekiti. It is widely acknowledged that the Obas and Chiefs are the nearest to our people in the state. Chiefs are the heads and representatives of quarters and homes. They also overlook security on the farms.
“We appreciate the on-going debate in the National Assembly on the creation of State Police’. We are optimistic that the bill shall translate into law.
“We implore the Government to put into consideration the inclusion of traditional Chiefs in the screening and recommendation of trusted candidates in their communities for enlistment into the State Police. This becomes necessary based on their proximity to the local community people”.
Addressing the gathering, the convener of the meeting, Hon. Oyetunde Ojo who was installed as the patron of the group at the event, described Tinubu’s infrastructural development efforts, particularly road construction, as unprecedented, arguing that the quality of roads being delivered under the administration could endure for decades.
The former House of Representatives member who also commended Tinubu for his fairness in appointments across ethnic groups, said the administration had demonstrated commitment to inclusiveness in governance.
Ojo who noted that the security situation was gradually improving, said the ongoing construction of a military barracks in Ikere-Ekiti is a significant intervention that would strengthen security operations and create employment opportunities.
“The scale of road construction being undertaken by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is remarkable. The last time Nigeria witnessed infrastructure development of such magnitude was during the regime of General Yakubu Gowon.
“These roads are being constructed to stand the test of time, with the potential to last between 30 and 40 years.
“His administration has also demonstrated a commitment to inclusiveness by ensuring that appointments reflect a fair representation of the country’s diverse ethnic groups.
“The security is gradual improving and with sustained efforts, the situation is expected to continue improving.President Tinubu is doing a lot to transform the country, yet some people continue to condemn his policies and programmes. We challenge those critics to explain what they would do differently if given the opportunity to govern”.
Former Ekiti State Governor, Engr. Segun Oni, also called for collective support for Tinubu, saying it is not just a Yoruba project but other ethnic nationalties like Hausa, Igbo and others must be involved to respect two terms presidential gentleman agreement between the Northern and Southern Nigeria to achieve electoral success for President Tinubu come January 2027.
Others dignitaries ,who were at the well attended event who took turn to speak and rally support for president Tinubu include, former Ekiti State deputy governor, Prof. Modupe Adelabu, former Ekiti House of representative members, Hon. Bimbo Daramola, Hon. Bamidele Faparusi, Dr. Ife Arowosoge, Hon. Ifedayo Abegunde(Ondo) among others.
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