… Backs Tinubu’s Reform

The Oba of Lagos, Rilwan Akiolu, has called on Nigerian youths to reject political violence and participate peacefully in the country’s democratic process ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The monarch made the appeal on Saturday when he received members of the Forum of All Progressives Congress (APC) State Chairmen, led by the forum’s chairman, Cornelius Ojelabi, during a courtesy visit to his palace at Iga-Idungaran in Lagos.

Akiolu urged young Nigerians not to allow themselves to be used by politicians to foment violence, stressing that peaceful elections remain critical to the country’s democratic development.

He also called on political parties, candidates and other stakeholders to conduct their activities in accordance with the law before, during and after the elections.

According to the monarch, the nation’s youths have a significant role to play in promoting peace, unity and national development through responsible participation in the electoral process.

He also appealed to APC state chairmen to demonstrate honesty, integrity and selfless leadership in the discharge of their responsibilities, noting that national development depends on leaders who place public interest above personal gain.

The traditional ruler expressed support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging Nigerians to remain patient with the administration as it implements economic and governance reforms.

“Be patient with President Bola Tinubu as he implements reform programmes for the country to get better. President Tinubu means well for Nigerians and is grassroots-focused,” Akiolu said.

He maintained that the President had taken bold decisions aimed at stabilising the economy and strengthening national institutions, expressing confidence that the reforms would yield positive results if given sufficient time.

Akiolu also predicted victory for Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election, saying he believed the President would secure another mandate if allowed to complete his reform agenda.

The monarch further urged Nigerians to continue praying for the President, as well as for peace, unity and stability across the country, while acknowledging the prevailing economic and security challenges facing the nation.

He condemned vote-buying and the growing monetisation of politics, warning that such practices undermine democracy and the credibility of elections. He also encouraged eligible citizens to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards and participate actively in future elections.

Akiolu equally appealed to journalists to uphold professional ethics by reporting accurately and responsibly, saying balanced journalism contributes to national peace and development.

Speaking on behalf of the delegation, the APC Chairman in Edo State, Jarrett Tenebe, said party leaders across the country were working to strengthen the APC ahead of future elections.

Tenebe said APC state chairmen had resolved to mobilise support for President Tinubu’s administration and improve the party’s electoral performance nationwide.

He disclosed that the party in Edo State had set a target of delivering 2.5 million votes for the President in the next presidential election, attributing the optimism to what he described as the developmental efforts of both the Federal Government and the Edo State Government.

He thanked the Oba of Lagos for receiving the delegation and for offering prayers, expressing confidence that the monarch’s blessings would encourage party members as preparations for the 2027 general elections continue.