…as government pledges respect and smooth partnership

By Precious Owolabi, Ado-Ekiti

The Ekiti State Traditional Rulers, under the auspices of the Majority Obas of Ekiti Land (MOBEL), have predicted a landslide victory for Governor Biodun Oyebanji in his re-election bid in 2026.

The monarchs based their prediction on the level of peace, development, stability, and mutual respect being afforded to the people of Ekiti, including all the monarchs, by the Governor. They stated that these factors have endeared the government to the populace and critical stakeholders.

However, the Ekiti State Government has promised to prioritise the welfare of the traditional rulers and put mechanisms in place to prevent any disrespect that could emanate from any of their chiefs or subjects.

The new leadership of MOBEL, led by its Chairman and Ojurin of Ijurin Ekiti, Oba Afolabi Joachim Ajibola, gave the assurance on Thursday during a courtesy visit to the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital.

A statement signed by the Special Assistant on Media to the Deputy Governor, Victor Ogunje, revealed that the Onikun of Ikun Amure, Oba David Olatunde, who spoke on behalf of the monarchs, promised that MOBEL, comprising grades A, B, and C hierarchical monarchs, would collaborate with the government to instil peace and stability in all the towns.

Underscoring their commitment to their duties, Oba Olatunde said that what MOBEL firmly stands for is progress, unity, and love among Ekiti residents, regardless of race, creed, or religious sentiment. He vowed that these values would be fostered in the interest of the citizens.

To strengthen the traditional institution and elevate its respect, the monarch sought an amendment to the Ekiti State Chiefs Law, which he described as obsolete and outdated. He clarified that his members are traditional rulers and not chiefs, as referred to in the State’s Edict.

Oba Olatunde, however, raised the issue of ongoing disagreements between some of their colleagues and the chiefs, describing the rising tensions as demoralising and making them feel uncomfortable.

The monarch urged the government to look inward and revise the institutional framework to reignite the respect traditionally accorded royalty, by fostering mutual respect in the traditional system.

“We are grateful to Governor Oyebanji for prioritising our welfare and for his love, respect, and humility towards the traditional rulers. I must say that while we have had previous governments in Ekiti, this government is different and special.

“We are assuring you that the second term of His Excellency, Biodun Oyebanji, is certain. Even after you leave office, Ekiti will continue to respect you,” he stated.

Corroborating his colleague, the MOBEL Chairman, Oba Ajibola, assured that the new executive would reinforce its partnership with the government to foster peace and unity at the grassroots.

Oba Ajibola appreciated Oyebanji’s administration for its giant strides to ensure that development reaches all 140 towns in the state, specifically for prioritising the welfare of the traditional rulers.

In her response, the Deputy Governor, Mrs Afuye, assured that this government would not shy away from making the welfare of monarchs a prime concern and a frontline priority, revealing that Governor Oyebanji fully appreciates the enormity of the burdens and statutory duties being carried out by the traditional rulers.

Mrs Afuye frowned upon the rising brawls between the monarchs and their chiefs, stating that the government would not tolerate any form of disrespect against the traditional rulers, whom she described as the fathers of all.

“This government relies heavily on you to ensure that we enjoy peace. We are pleased with the way you have been handling some of your duties and how you have adjudicated on local issues brought before you.

“We plead that you continue in this manner; we are always ready to support you. Go home and maintain cordial relationships with your chiefs.

“What we stand for as a government is respect for traditional rulers. Governor Oyebanji has always emphasised this, and we stand by it. Respect is reciprocal. Do not remove your chiefs without the government being informed. As long as you are on the side of the law, no chief can disrespect you.”