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Vows to empower traditional rulers, end executive overreach
From Taiwo Oluwadare, Ibadan
Prince Kunle Musediq Adelakun Eruobodo has declared his intention to contest the 2027 governorship election in Oyo State under the platform of the All Progressives Congress, with a strong pledge to restore the autonomy and dignity of traditional institutions across the state.
Eruobodo, who holds the title of Jagunmolu Agbekoya of Yorubaland, made the declaration on Wednesday, emphasising that his administration would reposition traditional rulers as independent custodians of culture and grassroots governance rather than appendages of political authority.
The governorship hopeful, son of the late Ibadan political figure Busari Adelakun Eruobodo, himself a member of the historic Agbekoya movement, said the time had come to strengthen traditional institutions and shield them from undue interference by the executive arm of government.
Addressing party leaders, stakeholders and supporters, Eruobodo paid homage to the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, noting that traditional rulers remain vital to peace, cultural preservation and community development.
“Our traditional rulers will enjoy greater independence and dignity. The institution of traditional rulers will be strengthened to protect and promote Yoruba values and the Omoluabi ethos,” he said.
Eruobodo argued that empowering monarchs and community leaders would enhance grassroots security, improve conflict resolution and deepen public trust in governance, especially in rural areas.
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While outlining his broader “Renewed Hope and Vision” agenda, he stressed that traditional institutions would be fully integrated into his governance framework, particularly in areas of local security, cultural development and community engagement.
He also acknowledged the contributions of local security networks such as the Agbekoya, the Oodua Peoples Congress and the Amotekun Corps, describing them as critical partners in maintaining peace and stability.
Eruobodo’s declaration comes amid growing political activity within the APC in Oyo State, where his entry is expected to reshape internal alignments ahead of the party’s primaries, potentially setting up a contest with prominent figures such as Bayo Adelabu.
Beyond traditional institution reforms, Eruobodo outlined key priorities including education, healthcare, agriculture, infrastructure and economic development, all anchored on what he described as “people-oriented development”.
He pledged to operate a transparent and accountable administration, promising that governance under his leadership would prioritise the welfare of citizens over political interests.
The Jagunmolu Agbekoya further stated that restoring respect for traditional rulers would help rebuild societal values and reinforce community-based governance systems that have historically sustained Yoruba society.
“With the support of our people and by the grace of God, we will build a state where tradition and modern governance work hand in hand for the benefit of all,” he added.
Eruobodo concluded by expressing confidence in his candidacy, declaring that his vision would return Oyo State to its position as a model of progressive governance in Nigeria.
