As political activities intensify ahead of the August 15, 2026 Osun State governorship election, the Ọlẹẹgbẹ of Akingbade Ipoye Ife Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Oba Abdul Yakeen Zakariyah Fakowajo Adekayaoja, has appealed to youths and residents of Ile-Ife to shun violence and uphold the values of peace, unity and responsible citizenship.
The monarch made the appeal during an interview with journalists at his palace, where he expressed concern over rising political tension in some parts of the state and stressed that no political ambition should be allowed to undermine the peace and stability that Osun has continued to enjoy.
His call comes amid broader appeals from stakeholders for peaceful campaigns and issue-based politics ahead of the election. Oba Fakowajo urged young people not to allow themselves to be used as instruments of violence by desperate politicians, warning that those who instigate violence often remain untouched while innocent youths bear the consequences.
According to him, “The future belongs to our youths, and they must not mortgage that future because of temporary political gains. Elections will come and go, but the peace of our communities must be preserved.”
The traditional ruler called on political parties, candidates and their supporters to conduct their campaigns with decorum, mutual respect and tolerance, noting that healthy political competition should never degenerate into bloodshed or destruction of lives and property.
He further appealed to parents, religious leaders and other traditional rulers across Osun State to continue sensitising young people on the need to remain law-abiding before, during and after the election.
Oba Fakowajo also commended security agencies and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for preparations towards the governorship poll and urged them to remain professional, impartial and committed to ensuring a free, fair and credible electoral process.
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The royal father expressed confidence that with collective commitment from all stakeholders, Osun State would once again demonstrate its reputation as one of Nigeria’s most peaceful states by conducting a violence-free governorship election. He prayed for continued peace, progress and development in Ile-Ife, Osun State and Nigeria as a whole.
Mariam Balogun is a contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, business, and public affairs.
