Monarchs Should Shun Partisan Politics, Prioritise Security, Development – PVAN

 

The People’s Voice Advocacy Network (PVAN) has cautioned traditional rulers in Kwara State against what it termed their increasing open involvement in political activities, warning that such actions threaten the neutrality and dignity of the traditional institution.

In a statement issued by its Deputy Publicity Secretary, Engr. Abdulraheem Kehinde, the pro-democracy group said although every citizen reserves the right to support any political leaning, traditional rulers occupy a sacred, nonpartisan position and must not be seen openly endorsing political interests.

PVAN expressed particular concern over what it described as the growing alignment of some monarchs with the Kwara North 2027 agenda, which it noted appears strongly tilted toward the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

“The 2027 Kwara North agenda appears strongly tied to the political interests of the ruling APC, and the open support of monarchs could be misconstrued as endorsement of a political party. This is neither appropriate nor acceptable,” the statement read.

The group warned that aligning with political interests could erode public trust in the royal institution and distort the unifying role monarchs are expected to play.

“Traditional rulers are expected to serve as fathers to all, irrespective of political affiliation. When they are seen openly supporting a partisan agenda, it not only erodes public confidence in the institution but also creates divisions within the communities they are meant to unify,” PVAN said.

According to the group, traditional rulers should instead steer their attention toward tackling issues affecting their people, including insecurity, economic hardship, and poor infrastructure.

“At a time when communities across the state are grappling with insecurity, economic hardship, declining infrastructure and other developmental challenges, traditional rulers should prioritise issues that directly affect the welfare of their people,” the statement added.

PVAN also urged the state government to desist from using public resources, influence or coercion to steer traditional rulers toward partisan objectives, saying such actions undermine democratic norms.

“The traditional institution must remain insulated from politics and political manipulation if it is to retain its dignity and fulfil its constitutional responsibilities,” the group warned.

The organisation maintained that the 2027 electoral contest should be left strictly to politicians and voters, while monarchs uphold their roles as custodians of peace, stability, and development.

“At PVAN, we remain committed to promoting good governance, civic responsibility and the protection of democratic values in Kwara State and beyond,” the statement concluded.