Nigeria governor urges monarchs to ensure peaceful 2027 elections

Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun has called on traditional rulers across the state to leverage their influence at the grassroots level to ensure peaceful and responsible participation in the upcoming 2027 general elections. The governor made this appeal during the inauguration of Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo as the new Chairman of the Ogun State Council of Obas.

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Beyond security, I also called on our royal fathers to continue mobilising our people towards responsible civic participation, particularly as we enter another electoral season.

Governor Abiodun urged the monarchs to educate their subjects on the significance of civic participation and to actively discourage violence, thuggery, and hatred. He stressed that these negative acts could threaten the state's peace and stability before, during, and after the elections. The governor described the 2027 elections as a crucial democratic transition, noting that a democracy's strength is measured not only by voter turnout but also by the peace and sound judgment exercised by citizens.

Highlighting the vital role of traditional institutions, Abiodun stated that their extensive reach and moral authority make them indispensable in maintaining electoral peace. He described them as strategic partners in fostering peace, strengthening security, and deepening grassroots development within the state.

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Our people should be encouraged to recognise and support the development strides of the government and, when the time comes, translate their appreciation into their democratic choices at the polls.

Abiodun also commended the traditional rulers for their ongoing support of his administration, particularly their contributions to intelligence gathering and community mobilization, which are crucial for effective security operations. He affirmed that while the government provides resources and security agencies deploy personnel, the local intelligence provided by monarchs remains irreplaceable.

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At the same time, you must remind your subjects that elections should never become an excuse for violence, hatred or division. We must continue to uphold the peace we have collectively nurtured and participate responsibly in programmes that advance our ‘Building Our Future Together’ agenda.