Ibadan Elders Advocate Peace for Oyo Politicians Ahead of 2027

The Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) has issued a stern warning to political figures in Oyo State, urging them to steer clear of violence and foster a peaceful electoral atmosphere as the 2027 general elections approach. The call was made by the CCII President-General, Chief Ajeniyi Ajewole, in a statement released on Saturday in Ibadan, the state capital, through the council’s Publicity Secretary, Kola Olomide.

Chief Ajewole conveyed the council's deep concern regarding recent violent altercations between supporters of various political parties, particularly those reported in the Molete area of Ibadan. He strongly condemned these attacks, cautioning that “such actions could threaten peace and security in the state.”

“We urge politicians not to return Ibadan and Oyo at large to the era of wanton killings and destruction of lives and property,” Ajewole stated. He further appealed to all candidates and their supporters to exercise restraint, emphasizing the importance of respecting the rights of others, irrespective of their political affiliations. The CCII President-General stressed that election campaigns should be focused on issues, with politicians presenting their manifestoes to the electorate and clearly outlining their strategies for addressing the needs of the populace. He added, “We also urge all candidates, political parties and their supporters to embrace peaceful engagement and allow voters to make informed choices without intimidation or violence.”

Ajewole also advised political leaders to proactively caution their followers against making inflammatory statements or engaging in actions that could escalate tensions during the campaign period. He reiterated the council’s belief that “Political ambition should not be pursued at the expense of the lives and property of the people. We must all recognise that the peace of Ibadan and Oyo is a collective responsibility that must be protected by everyone.”

In addition, the council called on security agencies to maintain vigilance and ensure that individuals involved in political violence are apprehended and brought to justice in accordance with the law. This appeal from the CCII follows reports by PUNCH Online of an incident where hoodlums attacked supporters of the Accord Party’s governorship candidate in Oyo State, Oriyomi Hamzat, during a procession in the Molete area of Ibadan South-West Local Government Area on Wednesday. The state Police Public Relations Officer, Olayinka Ayanlade, confirmed the event in a telephone conversation with PUNCH Online, stating, “I am aware of the attacks. The loyalists of Hamzat were ambushed during a peaceful procession at Molete end of the ancient city.”