The Olubadan of Ibadan land, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has stated that political endorsements will not determine the outcome of the 2027 governorship election in Oyo State, emphasizing that the electorate will ultimately decide who emerges victorious. Speaking with journalists at his private residence in Bodija, Ibadan, on Wednesday, the monarch dismissed claims by some aspirants linking their ambitions to his alleged support, noting that such assertions do not guarantee electoral success.
Ladoja explained that while politicians are free to associate themselves with his name or claim his backing, he remains a father figure to all and cannot restrict individuals from making such declarations. He stressed that what will distinguish candidates in the race are their personal achievements, political structures, acceptability among the people, and the effectiveness of their campaign strategies, rather than perceived royal endorsements.
His remarks come amid heightened political activities and speculations ahead of the 2027 elections, with several aspirants intensifying consultations and mobilization efforts. The monarch’s clarification is seen as a deliberate move to distance the traditional institution from partisan politics, while reinforcing his neutral stance and commitment to serving as a unifying figure for all political stakeholders in the state.
