Oba Akiolu of Lagos urges Nigerian youths against electoral violence
Oba Rilwan Akiolu, the Oba of Lagos has urged Nigerian youths to reject political violence and to peacefully participate in the democratic process ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 General Elections.The call was made by the monarch on Saturday, 4th June at his palace at Iga-Idungaran in Lagos, while he hosted the members of the Forum of the All Progressives Congress (APC) State Chairmen, led by Cornelius Ojelabi, the forum’s Chairman.
His appeal to the youths was to not let themselves be used by politicians, stating that peaceful democratic processes are critical to the country’s development. He also made a call to political parties and other stakeholders to conduct their activities in accordance to the law, prior to, during and post election period.
He added that Nigerian youths play a significant role in upholding peace, unity and national development through responsible participation in the electoral process. He also made an appeal to the state Chairmen of the ruling party (APC) to maintain honesty, integrity and selfless leadership while carrying out their duties, emphasizing that national development is dependent on leaders that place public interest over personal interest.
The monarch expressed his support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and urged Nigerians to continue to be patient with the administration as it implements economic and governance reforms. According to him, the President has taken bold decisions targeted at stabilizing the economy and making national institutions stronger, expressing confidence in the positive results of the reforms and in the President Tinubu winning the 2027 elections, if allowed to complete his reform agenda.
The monarch also discouraged vote-buying and urged journalists to uphold professional ethics by reporting responsibly and with accuracy.
Meanwhile, the APC Chairman in Edo State, Jarrett Tenebe, the delegation’s spokesperson commented that the party leaders across the country were working to strengthen the party ahead of future elections.
The spokesperson revealed that the party in Edo State had set a target of delivering 2.5 million votes to the President in the upcoming elections, noting that the APC State Chairmen had resolved to gather support for the President Tinubu’s administration and improve electoral performance nationwide.
He gave his thanks to the monarch for hosting the delegation and offering prayers, expressing that the monarchs support will be a source of encouragement for the party members as the election preparations continue.
