Traditional Leaders, Don’t Let Your Royal Stool Be Used for Political Gains

By Abdullahi Abubakar 

I came across a video with the caption: “Breaking: Kwara South traditional rulers and chiefs led by the Olupo of Ajase-Ipo, Oba Ismail Yahya Alebiosu, today declared their total support for Kwara North’s 2027 governorship bid, citing equity, fairness, and justice. The monarchs also beseeched all Kwarans to join them in supporting equity, fairness, and justice.”

While the principles of equity, fairness, and justice are noble and worth upholding, the involvement of traditional leaders in partisan political advocacy raises critical questions about the sanctity of their royal stools. Our royal fathers are revered custodians of culture and symbols of unity, and their roles transcend the transient nature of politics. It is, therefore, worrisome when traditional rulers are seen taking sides in matters that should be left to the electorate.

The Role of Traditional Leaders in Society

Traditional rulers hold a sacred position in society, serving as arbiters of peace, promoters of unity, and symbols of collective identity. Their influence is derived not from political alliances but from their ability to rise above the fray and offer wise counsel to all, irrespective of political affiliation. This neutrality is what makes their voices respected and their opinions valued.

When royal fathers openly endorse a political agenda or candidate, they risk eroding their neutrality and diminishing the respect their stool commands. Such actions may divide their communities and expose the institution to unnecessary criticism and politicization.

A Call for Reflection

The call for equity, fairness, and justice in Kwara politics is legitimate and should resonate with all well-meaning Kwarans. However, this advocacy should be driven by political actors, civil society, and the people themselves—not by traditional leaders who are meant to remain apolitical.

By declaring support for a particular political zone or candidate, traditional rulers inadvertently alienate segments of their subjects who may not share the same sentiment. This creates division where there should be unity, and it undermines their ability to mediate conflicts or bring communities together.

Consequences of Partisan Involvement

 1. Loss of Public Trust and Respect: When traditional leaders are perceived as partisan, their credibility is eroded. Their subjects may begin to question their judgment, and their moral authority could be compromised.

 2. Community Division: Endorsing a specific political agenda can split communities along political lines, fostering animosity among people who should remain united. This can lead to long-lasting divisions within the kingdom.

 3. Weakening of the Institution: The institution of traditional leadership thrives on neutrality and impartiality. By engaging in politics, traditional rulers risk weakening the relevance and sanctity of their stools. Future leaders may also find it challenging to maintain the respect once commanded by the throne.

 4. Political Backlash: When the political tide changes, monarchs who openly supported a losing side may face retaliation or marginalization by the succeeding administration. This could adversely affect their communities, leading to reduced government attention and development.

 5. Erosion of Cultural Integrity: The throne represents the heritage and culture of the people. Allowing it to be used for political gains diminishes its cultural significance, making it a mere extension of political gamesmanship.

Equity Through the Right Channels

The principle of rotating leadership for equity and fairness is not new to Kwara politics. However, such principles should be advocated through political structures and by those who hold elected mandates, not by those who sit on royal stools. The throne is not a political platform; it is a seat of honor and impartiality.

Traditional leaders are well within their rights to encourage their subjects to participate in the democratic process, promote peace during elections, and urge politicians to act with fairness. But they must avoid being seen as political players or endorsing specific agendas.

Protecting the Integrity of the Throne

As the 2027 elections approach, the political landscape in Kwara is bound to become more heated. It is imperative for traditional rulers to insulate themselves from the partisan rhetoric and political maneuverings that often characterize such periods. Their involvement in partisan politics does not only expose them to criticism but also weakens the respect their throne commands.

Our royal fathers should remain focused on their primary roles: fostering unity, promoting development, and preserving our culture. By doing so, they will continue to be the moral compass of society and a rallying point for all Kwarans, regardless of political leanings.

Conclusion

The stool of a traditional ruler is sacred and must not be used as a tool for political gains. Kwara’s monarchs must resist the temptation to wade into partisan politics and instead focus on their roles as neutral arbiters and custodians of equity, fairness, and justice.

Allowing the royal stool to become embroiled in politics risks alienating communities, eroding trust, and diminishing the throne’s sanctity. Let the call for equity in the 2027 governorship be championed by politicians and the electorate. Our royal fathers must remain above the fray, protecting the dignity of their thrones and serving as symbols of unity for all Kwarans. 

Abdullahi Abubakar is a concerned Kwaran and a political Analyst.

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