The Oba of Lagos, Rilwan Akiolu, has thrown his weight behind President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s expected re-election bid in 2027 while delivering a strong warning against political violence, vote-buying and electoral thuggery, urging Nigerians—especially young people—to protect the country’s democracy through peaceful participation.
The respected traditional ruler made the remarks on Saturday when he received the 36 state chairmen of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), led by the party’s Lagos State Chairman, Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi, alongside several local government party leaders at the Iga-Idungaran Palace in Lagos.
Addressing the delegation, Akiolu appealed to political parties, candidates and supporters to conduct themselves responsibly before, during and after the 2027 general elections. He urged Nigerian youths not to allow themselves to be recruited as political thugs, stressing that violence, hate speech and electoral intimidation have no place in a democratic society.
The monarch said Nigeria’s progress depends on peaceful elections, national unity and responsible leadership, adding that young people should channel their energy into productive ventures and play constructive roles in strengthening the country’s democratic institutions.
Akiolu also expressed confidence that President Tinubu would secure another term in office if given the opportunity to complete his ongoing reform agenda. According to him, the President deserves time and political support to consolidate economic reforms, strengthen national institutions and promote greater national cohesion.
He maintained that Tinubu remains committed to Nigeria’s development and called on citizens to remain patient despite the country’s economic and security challenges. The monarch also urged Nigerians to continue praying for the President, peace and the unity of the nation.
Calling on APC leaders across the country, Akiolu said political leadership must be built on honesty, integrity, hard work and selfless service rather than personal gain. He challenged the party’s state chairmen to return to their respective states and strengthen grassroots structures while remaining committed to the party’s ideals.
The traditional ruler further condemned the monetisation of politics and vote-buying, warning that both practices undermine free, fair and credible elections. He encouraged eligible Nigerians who have yet to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) to register and actively participate in the electoral process, describing voting as a civic duty rather than a financial transaction.
Akiolu also appealed to journalists to uphold professionalism by reporting accurately and responsibly, noting that ethical journalism plays an important role in preserving peace and supporting national development.
Speaking on behalf of the visiting delegation, Jarrett Tenebe, Chairman of the APC in Edo State, said party leaders across Nigeria were already intensifying grassroots mobilisation ahead of the next general election. He disclosed that the Edo chapter of the APC is targeting 2.5 million votes for President Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election, expressing confidence that the administration’s development efforts would boost the party’s electoral performance across the country.
The visit underscored the APC’s growing nationwide mobilisation ahead of the 2027 elections, even as influential political and traditional leaders continue to call for peaceful campaigns, credible elections and national unity.
