2027: INEC recruits Oba Akiolu, Lagos Traditional Council for peaceful polls

On Tuesday, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) officially enlisted the Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Babatunde Osuolale Akiolu, along with the Lagos Traditional Council, as vital partners in maintaining peace and encouraging citizen participation ahead of the 2027 general elections. This collaboration was announced by INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, during a visit to the monarch at Iga Idunganran, Lagos Island, which concluded the Commission's South-West Zonal Readiness Assessment and Staff Interactive Session.

Prof. Amupitan emphasized that while INEC is implementing technology to enhance the electoral process, the traditional institutions' involvement is crucial for the process's success, stating, "Elections should be seen as civic celebrations of free choice, rather than as arenas for conflict or violence." The monarch was tasked with mobilizing citizens to take ownership of the electoral process, actively participate, and ensure high voter turnout.

Prof. Amupitan underscored the importance of traditional rulers as societal pillars, whose influence endures beyond the transient nature of politics. He specifically requested that Oba Akiolu use his position to advise politicians against divisive behavior, urging them to focus on issues rather than personal attacks. Oba Akiolu welcomed the Commission's appeal, urging politicians to shift away from patronage and concentrate on real capacity building, while also highlighting the challenge of indiscipline among the youth and the responsibility of traditional rulers to guide citizens towards active civic engagement.

The monarch also appealed to the INEC leadership to remain steadfast in their constitutional duties and for the Federal Government to ensure full funding for the elections, equipping INEC with all necessary resources to execute its mandate flawlessly.