Osun monarch endorsement claims involving Governor Adeleke have been denied as Oba Wahab Oyedotun reaffirms political neutrality
Oba Wahab Oyedotun, the Orangun of Ila in Osun State, has denied endorsing Governor Ademola Adeleke ahead of the 2026 governorship election, stating that he remains neutral in political matters.
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The monarch made the clarification at his palace after reports emerged that a delegation of Ila-Orangun chiefs had visited Adeleke and declared support for his re-election on behalf of the traditional ruler and the community.
Oba Oyedotun said he was not aware of, nor did he authorise, any statement endorsing a political candidate, stressing that his role as a traditional ruler requires him to remain above party politics.
“I could not favour any political party because many of my subjects belong to different political groups,” the monarch said.
He explained that his priority was the growth and development of Ila-Orangun rather than involvement in partisan activities.
The traditional ruler also advised monarchs across Yorubaland to avoid being drawn into political divisions, noting that politicians from different parties remain members of their communities and often maintain personal relationships despite political differences.
While acknowledging that those involved in the reported endorsement were members of his community, Oba Oyedotun expressed concern over the use of his name without approval.
“What I found disturbing is the way they dropped my name,” he said.
The clarification comes as political activities intensify ahead of the Osun governorship election, with parties and their supporters seeking support from influential community figures across the state.
Governor Ademola Adeleke, who emerged victorious in the 2022 governorship election, is expected to face renewed political competition as preparations for the 2026 poll continue.
Also read: Oba Gbadebo Endorses Adebutu as Trustworthy Ogun Leader
The monarch maintained that traditional institutions should remain symbols of unity and avoid actions that could create divisions among their subjects.
