Democracy Watchers Condemn Makinde’s Alleged Threat to Oyo Traditional Rulers

A socio-political group, Democracy Watchers, has condemned what it described as Governor Seyi Makinde’s alleged threat against traditional rulers over their political positions, accusing the Oyo governor of disrespecting Yorubaland’s revered traditional institution.

In a statement signed by its Publicity Secretary, Olumide Yusuf, the group questioned whether holding the office of governor gave Makinde the right to insult or intimidate traditional rulers, whom it described as custodians of history, culture and communal values.

Democracy Watchers also accused some of the governor’s political associates of attacking monarchs who hold opposing views, describing such conduct as an abuse of political influence and a threat to the dignity of the traditional institution.

“Traditional rulers are not political punching bags. They represent institutions older than elective offices,” the group said, insisting that no governor should threaten or insult royal fathers because of their political views.

The group argued that traditional rulers are not political appointees of the governor and have the same constitutional rights as other Nigerians, including freedom of expression and association. It further accused Makinde of showing increasing intolerance ahead of the 2027 general election.

Democracy Watchers reminded the governor that traditional rulers supported his emergence in 2019 and his re-election in 2023, urging him not to regard them as political enemies simply because they may exercise their rights differently. The group said political office is temporary, while the traditional institution would outlive individual administrations.

The group also criticised Makinde’s political activities ahead of 2027 and warned against treating Oyo State as the personal property of any individual. It urged the governor to withdraw the statement it described as offensive and apologise to the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs.

The organisation called on traditional rulers across the state to remain firm in defending the interests of their communities, saying political power would eventually change hands. It also took aim at speculation surrounding Makinde’s alleged presidential ambition, arguing that the governor should focus on governance and avoid using state resources for political purposes.

Democracy Watchers concluded by stressing that the tenure of every elected official has an end date, while traditional institutions remain part of the enduring social structure of the Yoruba people.