Traditional rulers in Ile-Ife, Osun State, have appealed to political parties in the state to embrace peace during and after the August 15 governorship election.
The Obalufe of Ife, Oba Idowu Adediwura, and Lowa Adimula of Ife, Oba Adekola Adeyeye, made the call while speaking with journalists on Sunday in Ile-Ife.
Oba Adediwura urged political actors to shun violence and ensure a peaceful election amid rising political tension in the state.
The Obalufe warned that thugs found engaging in violence would be punished, charging security agencies to apprehend perpetrators of electoral violence.
Contributing, Oba Adekola Adeyeye urged political stakeholders not to undermine the peace-building efforts of Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, through selfish political interest.
The Lowa Adimula urged political parties to conduct their activities peacefully, saying that the development and unity of Ile-Ife was paramount.
The traditional ruler commended the Ooni for his fatherly roles in maintaining peace and promoting development across Ife land, Osun and Nigeria at large.
He appealed to stakeholders to support the Ooni’s peace initiative and ensure that the election was conducted in a peaceful atmosphere.
