Ibadan traditional ruler wants security beefed for governorship election
The traditional ruler of Ibadan, Samuel Odulana, Odugade 1, has called on security agencies operating in Oyo State to be more prepared as the nation goes to elects state governors on Tuesday.
The ruler made the request in Ibadan, the state’s capital, on Wednesday, in a statement signed on his behalf by I.A. Akinpelu and made available to journalists.
He also denied the rumour that voting took place in his Ibadan residence during the last presidential election, blaming ‘mischief makers’ for spreading the speculation.
He specifically urged the security agencies to provide adequate security for the people of the state before, during and after the poll, to enable the eligible voters exercise their right.
According to him, if adequate security is provided, the electorate would be encouraged to come out in large numbers to vote the candidates of their choice.
Ahead of the governorship election, the state is already engulfed with fear of possible breakdown of law and order as the candidate of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the sitting governor, Adebayo Alao-Akala, bids to return to office, while his opponents mobilize to rebuff him.
No voting in the palace
The ruler said the rumour of voting in his house prompted security agencies to storm his residence on the election day to verify the claims, but had to go back without finding any incriminating item in the yard.
“For the past four decades, His Royal Majesty has not engaged in partisan politics. People should please recall that immediately on his ascension to the throne, one of his first pronouncements was that members of Olubadan-in-Council should not participate in partisan politics. For the avoidance of doubt, that is still his stand,” the statement read in parts.
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