IBADAN – The Ona-Ara Local Government Traditional Council has officially dismissed circulating claims both in public discourse and across social media that it has endorsed a particular aspirant for the Egbeda/Ona-Ara Federal Constituency ahead of the 2027 general elections.
This was made known during a telephone interview by our correspondence with the monarch, His Royal Highness, Oba Kamorudeen Adebowale Adeyemi, JP Oniladuntan of Laduntan, a foremost traditional ruler in Ona-Ara local government area of Oyo State.
During a recent assembly, the council reaffirmed its commitment to neutrality, emphasizing its role as custodians of tradition and impartial leaders to all constituents.
The monarchs stated that they will withhold any political alignment until the electoral landscape becomes clearer and aligns with the best interests of the people.
Representing the council, Oba Kamorudeen Adebowale Adeyemi (JP), the Oniladuntan of Laduntan, categorically denied reports suggesting the council had endorsed any candidate, labeling such claims as false and misleading.
“While it is common for aspirants to seek our blessings, any interpretation of my recent remarks as an official endorsement is incorrect,” Oba Adebowale clarified.
“We are fathers to all—indigenes and residents alike. It is both premature and inaccurate to suggest that we have adopted any candidate for an election that is still years away.”
The monarch further outlined the principles that will guide the council’s eventual support, stressing the importance of genuine commitment to community development and empowerment.
He emphasized that the traditional institution will back a political party that fields a credible indigene of Ona-Ara for the House of Representatives in 2027.
“Egbeda has had its fair share of representation at the federal level. It is now Ona-Ara’s turn,” Oba Adebowale stated. “Our allegiance is to the progress of our constituency. We seek a representative who understands our challenges and a party with a proven record of delivering democratic dividends.”
A Call for Quality Representation
The Egbeda/Ona-Ara Federal Constituency remains a pivotal political zone in Oyo State. By taking a firm stance, the Ona-Ara monarchs are sending a clear message to political stakeholders: traditional institutions will not serve as mere instruments of political ambition. Instead, they will act as gatekeepers, ensuring that only candidates with genuine intentions and community-focused agendas are considered.
As the 2027 elections draw nearer, Oba Adebowale’s remarks serve as a timely reminder to all aspirants earning the trust of Ona-Ara’s people requires more than promises; it demands visible commitment and service.
