Southwest Monarchs Endorse Tinubu for 2027 Re-election, Back State Police

Traditional rulers across Southwest Nigeria have endorsed President Bola Tinubu for a second term in office ahead of the 2027 presidential election, calling for the retention of the presidency in Southern Nigeria in the interest of political stability, equity and national unity.

The monarchs announced their position in a communiqué read by the Alake of Egbaland, Oba Aremu Gbadebo, after a meeting at the palace of the Olubadan of Ibadanland in Ibadan, Oyo State.

They urged traditional rulers across the region to mobilise their communities and encourage support for Tinubu’s re-election bid.

The monarchs also backed the president’s decision to remove the fuel subsidy, arguing that its reintroduction would undermine Nigeria’s long-term economic interests and fiscal sustainability.

On security, the traditional rulers endorsed the proposed establishment of state police, describing it as a strategic step towards strengthening internal security and protecting lives and property.

They urged traditional rulers to sensitise young people in their communities to take advantage of possible employment and service opportunities that could emerge from the initiative.

On the country’s political arrangement, the monarchs said rotational presidency had helped promote stability, inclusiveness and national cohesion.

They called for the continuation of the arrangement, insisting that the presidency should remain in Southern Nigeria in the next electoral cycle.

The council also pledged to engage traditional rulers in Northern Nigeria and other parts of the country to promote mutual understanding, peace and national integration.

The monarchs commended Tinubu for establishing new military formations in Oyo State, saying the development would strengthen security across the Southwest.

They also praised ongoing federal infrastructure projects and other development initiatives, noting that improved connectivity would support economic activities across the region and the country.

On the electoral process, the traditional rulers called for peaceful, free and credible elections at all levels. They condemned violence, voter intimidation, vote-buying and other forms of electoral malpractice.

The council pledged to sustain consultations on issues affecting the welfare, security and development of the Southwest and Nigeria as a whole.

It also urged Nigerians to remain law-abiding, support legitimate government initiatives and work towards building a peaceful, secure and prosperous country.