The Kwara South Mandate Group has decried alleged moves to pressure first-class traditional rulers across the 16 Local Government Areas of Kwara South into endorsing a particular gubernatorial aspirant, Hon. Salihu Danladi, the current Speaker of the Kwara State House of Assembly.
According to group led by Olayemi Afolayan, such move is not only disturbing but also disrespectful to the traditional rulers in Kwara South, saying the sacred stools occupied by these Monarch’s should not be used as instruments for political manipulation, nor should they be reduced to tools in any form of partisan contest.
“We find these reports not only disturbing but profoundly disrespectful to the institution of traditional leadership, which has, for generations, served as a pillar of cultural identity, unity, and moral authority in our society.
“The sacred stools occupied by our revered Obas are not instruments for political manipulation, nor should they be reduced to tools in any form of partisan contest.
“Our traditional rulers are custodians of our heritage, symbols of our collective dignity, and embodiments of the values that bind our communities together.
“To attempt to drag them into the murky waters of political endorsement, particularly through coercion or undue influence, is to undermine the very essence of their revered positions.
“We wish to state clearly and respectfully that our kings must be accorded the honour and dignity they deserve.
“They are fathers to all, irrespective of political affiliations, and must remain neutral arbiters who unite rather than divide their people. Any attempt to compromise this neutrality is both unacceptable and dangerous.
“The Kwara South Mandate Group is particularly concerned by the alleged involvement of state actors in orchestrating this move.
“If indeed such actions are being contemplated or executed, it represents a troubling departure from democratic norms and a disregard for the autonomy of traditional institutions.
“It is instructive to note that in other senatorial zones within the state, there has been no such reported pressure on first-class traditional rulers to declare support for any gubernatorial candidate.
“This raises serious questions about fairness, equity, and respect for Kwara South as a vital and equal component of the state.
“We therefore respectfully insist that Kwara South be accorded the same level of dignity and consideration as other regions.
“Our traditional rulers must not be singled out for political exploitation or subjected to pressures that undermine their integrity and independence.
“Let it be clearly understood that the traditional institution is sacred. It is a heritage passed down through generations, deserving of protection, reverence, and insulation from partisan interference.
“To politicise it is to erode its sanctity and weaken its role in fostering peace and cohesion.
“We call on all political actors, regardless of affiliation or ambition, to exercise restraint and demonstrate respect for the boundaries that separate governance from tradition.
“Leadership must be pursued through the will of the people, not through the coercion of revered institutions.
“Furthermore, we urge those allegedly involved in this scheme to immediately desist from any actions that may tarnish the image of our traditional rulers or compromise their standing in society.
“The long-term consequences of such actions far outweigh any perceived short-term political gains.
“Kwara South remains committed to democratic principles, fairness, and the protection of its cultural heritage.
“We will continue to advocate for the dignity of our people and the sanctity of our institutions, standing firmly against any attempt to subvert them.
“In conclusion, we reiterate that our kings are not pawns in any political chess game. They are symbols of honour, unity, and continuity.
“They must be treated as such respected, protected, and left out of partisan struggles. Anything less is a disservice to our people and an affront to our shared values,” the group stated.
