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๐Ÿ‡ณ๐Ÿ‡ฌ Nigeria /Elections & Politics

Osun monarchs back ex-Amotekun boss for APC senatorial ticket

From The Punch · (9h ago) English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

TLDR

  • Traditional rulers in Osun State have urged the All Progressives Congress to consider track record when selecting a candidate for the Osun West Senatorial District in 2027.
  • The monarchs specifically endorsed Brig. Gen. Bashir Adewinbi, citing his past contributions and experience as the former commander of the Osun State Amotekun Corps.
  • They pledged their support and that of their communities to Adewinbi if the APC grants him the senatorial ticket.

In Osun State, a chorus of traditional rulers has spoken out, urging the All Progressives Congress (APC) to prioritize a candidate with a proven track record for the Osun West Senatorial District in the upcoming 2027 elections. The monarchs, representing Ede North, Ede South, Egbedore, and Ejigbo local government areas, have thrown their weight behind Brig. Gen. Bashir Adewinbi, a former commander of the Osun State Amotekun Corps.

We, as traditional rulers, recognise the importance of track record and the ability to make an impact when given the opportunity to serve. In our view, we consider Gen. Adewinbiโ€™s past deeds and believe he has done enough to earn our support. We know him.

โ€” Olukotun of Ikotun land, Oba Amuda AdioReading a statement on behalf of the monarchs endorsing Brig. Gen. Bashir Adewinbi for the APC senatorial ticket.

Their endorsement, articulated by the Olukotun of Ikotun land, Oba Amuda Adio, highlights Adewinbi's past contributions to the communities within the district. The statement emphasizes that beyond their ceremonial roles, these traditional leaders wield significant influence over electoral choices in their domains. This collective backing signifies a powerful bloc of support that the APC would be wise to heed.

We are monarchs and fathers to all politicians. But as heads of communities in Ede North, Ede South and Egbedore, we accept Adewinbi. We are using this medium to call on APC elders in the state and Osun West Senatorial District to consider his track record and allow him to secure the partyโ€™s ticket for the Senate.

โ€” Olukotun of Ikotun land, Oba Amuda AdioFurther emphasizing the monarchs' unified support for Adewinbi and their appeal to the APC leadership.

The monarchs' intervention underscores a local perspective where traditional authority plays a crucial role in political endorsements. While national media might focus on party politics and candidate profiles, the influence of these royal fathers on the ground is a critical factor in electoral success in Osun. Their call for a candidate with a "track record" reflects a desire for leadership that is deeply connected to and demonstrably serves the people, a sentiment that resonates strongly within the local political landscape.

If the party gives him the ticket, we assure them that we, the traditional rulers in Ede North, Ede South and Egbedore, will give him the necessary support at the polls.

โ€” Olukotun of Ikotun land, Oba Amuda AdioPledging the collective electoral support of the monarchs and their communities if Adewinbi secures the party's nomination.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by The Punch. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.