Governor Seyi Makinde was recently quoted as saying, *“I will insult any traditional ruler who interferes in politics.”*
One cannot help but wonder: could the Governor be becoming increasingly apprehensive about his political failure ahead of the 2027 elections or obviously in panic mode of imminent outright defeat in the forthcoming 2027 general election?
Is this perhaps why there appears to be a growing attempt to bring some of Oyo State’s traditional rulers under political control or submission?
Has anyone paused to consider the sudden change in the relationship between the Oyo State Government and the traditional institution, particularly when compared with the cordial relationship that existed during the Governor’s previous electoral campaigns?
Why would a State Governor need to resort to threats or confrontational language simply because he may not be able to secure the support of traditional rulers for his political ambitions this time around?
There are also questions surrounding the Governor’s reported political aspirations beyond Oyo State as a Presidential Candidate and his desire to influence the emergence of his preferred successor as governor of Oyo State —the much-talked-about “Seyi Makinde 3.0” agenda?
Our rich Yoruba wisdom says, *“Tí o bá ṣe rere, ara kì í yo ya ó”* — if you have done well among your people, there should ordinarily be no reason for apprehension?
So, why does Governor Seyi Makinde appear increasingly unsettled?
Could it be that the handwriting is already on the wall and probably what he sees politically is beginning to make him so uncomfortable, *most especially, Barrister Sarafadeen Alli of APC's (BSA 4 Governor)* growing popularity in Oyo State?
The same Governor who enjoyed the highly publicised support and endorsement of a significant number of traditional rulers and chiefs during the 2023 general election, when he sought a second term in office, now appears to be experiencing a contrary relationship with the traditional institution.
What has changed?
Our traditional rulers are widely perceived to wield considerable influence over their Subjects by virtue of their cultural authority, historical positions and traditional responsibilities. They often serve as a reflection of the mood, aspirations and concerns of their communities.
Could it therefore be that the Governor is attempting to pre-empt or influence their positions ahead of the 2027 political season?
And why would a State Chief Executive resort to language suggesting that he could insult traditional rulers—people who are, by culture and tradition, regarded as custodians of our heritage and most senior elders in society — when he possesses the constitutional and administrative authority to invite them to the Agodi Government House for a respectful royal dialogue?
Dialogue, after all, is not a sign of weakness. Rather, it is often the hallmark of responsible leadership.
Perhaps the traditional rulers should not be entirely blamed for whatever coldness may now exist between them and the Governor. In human relationships, gestures often beget reciprocal responses. If traditional institutions feel disrespected, marginalised or unduly dominated, their reaction may naturally reflect that perception.
Then, an instance is the sensitive question surrounding the elevation of the three newly elevated Ibadan Obas.
What should we make of a situation in which such a significant royal engagement was conducted without the presence or apparent participation of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, the recognised custodian of the traditional throne?
Beyond the drama against norm involved by crowning the three Obas in absentia, this raises a broader question about the respect that should ordinarily be accorded to traditional hierarchy and established cultural protocols in Oyo State?
For the avoidance of doubt, my position on the political neutrality of traditional rulers remains unchanged. The Constitution does not confer on traditional rulers the role as partisan political actors, and they should not allow themselves to be dragged into partisan contests either.
However, recognising their constitutional neutrality should not lead us to underestimate their enormous cultural and social influence. Their ability to shape public opinion and reflect the mood of their people is real and cannot simply be wished away.
This is why I am deeply concerned that the relationship between the Oyo State Governor and the traditional institution appears to be generating unnecessary tension at a time when political activities ahead of 2027 election are gradually gathering momentum.
Governor Seyi Makinde, in my humble view, should rise above political calculations and embrace the more honourable path of dialogue, consultation and mutual respect.
Leadership is not about intimidating those who disagree with you. It is about creating an atmosphere where disagreement can be managed with maturity and wisdom.
The Governor should also remember one fundamental truth: there is life after political office!
No individual, no matter how powerful, can permanently lord himself over the will of the people. At the end of every administration, it is the record of performance, the impact made and the memories left behind that ultimately speak for the leader.
Political power is temporary. Public perception evolves. Positions change. Governments come and go.
Therefore, Mr. Governor, please relax!
*There is no need to heat up the polity unnecessarily.* There is no need to engage our traditional rulers in a needless confrontation.
You are still the Governor of Oyo State, and the office demands a certain level of dignity, restraint, maturity and decorum.
Let dialogue prevail over threats.
Let respect prevail over confrontation.
Let wisdom prevail over political anxiety.
After all, there is life after office?
*-Hon. Lanre Jinadu*
(RenewedHope Ambassador)
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