The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has insisted that neither name-dropping nor a candidate’s relationship with the palace will guarantee electoral success in the 2027 general election.
He said candidates would be assessed based on their antecedent performance in either public or civil service, as well as their impact on their immediate environment.
Ladoja, while addressing newsmen shortly after observing his Eid-el-Kabir prayers in Ibadan, advised candidates for various political offices to intensify their efforts on service delivery rather than relying on the influence of prominent individuals.
He said he had no objection to politicians identifying with him or using his name in their political campaigns, noting that all politicians and residents of the state are his sons and daughters.
According to the monarch, politicians naturally seek associations and endorsements that may strengthen their public image, but he insisted that electoral victory would ultimately be determined by the people based on candidates’ records and leadership capacity.
“There is nothing wrong if they use my name to promote themselves politically because they are all my children,” the Olubadan said.
“But at the end of the day, it is not my name that will determine who wins elections. The people will decide based on the antecedents, performance, and programmes of those seeking elective offices.”
The monarch stressed that voters in Oyo State have become more politically conscious and would not be swayed merely by political associations, endorsements, or name-dropping without visible records of service and commitment to the welfare of the people.
“People are wiser now. What the electorate wants are leaders who can genuinely improve their lives. They want people-oriented programmes and credible leadership, not just political propaganda,” he added.
Oba Ladoja advised politicians aspiring to various offices in 2027 to focus on impactful governance, service delivery, and policies capable of addressing the socio-economic challenges confronting the people.
He urged political actors to conduct their campaigns peacefully and avoid actions capable of creating tension or division within the state.
Speaking on the recent abduction of school pupils in Oriire Local Government Area of the state, the Olubadan expressed concern over the incident but assured residents that the government and security agencies were making concerted efforts to secure the safe release of the victims.
According to him, sensitive security operations are often kept away from public knowledge to avoid jeopardising rescue efforts.
“Government and security agencies are trying their best. It is just that they will not disclose everything they are doing because of security reasons,” Oba Ladoja stated.
The monarch appealed to residents to remain calm, continue supporting security agencies with useful information, and pray for the safe return of the abducted children.
He also called for greater collaboration among community leaders, residents, and security operatives in tackling insecurity and protecting lives and property across Oyo State.
The Olubadan reiterated the need for unity, peaceful coexistence, and collective responsibility among political leaders and citizens as the state gradually moves toward another political season.
