A traditional ruler in Bende Local Government Area of Abia State has come under public scrutiny following the circulation of a viral video in which he was allegedly heard making comments about voters who may choose not to support the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, during the 2027 general election.
The identity of the monarch has not been made public.
Reacting to the development, a Bende indigene, Mr. Peter Ekekwe, issued a statement in Umuahia on Friday, expressing concern over the reported remarks. He described the alleged comments as inappropriate and warned against what he sees as the growing involvement of traditional institutions in partisan politics.
Ekekwe stressed that every eligible Nigerian has a constitutional right to freely vote for any candidate without fear, intimidation or pressure from individuals or institutions.
He said democracy can only thrive when citizens are allowed to make political decisions based on their personal convictions, conscience and understanding of the issues, without interference from political leaders or traditional authorities.
According to him, no traditional ruler or public office holder should attempt to influence the voting choices of members of the community, as doing so goes against the principles of a free and fair democratic system.
He also reminded traditional rulers of their responsibility to remain symbols of peace and unity, regardless of the political differences that may exist within their communities.
Ekekwe noted that the palace should remain a place that belongs to everyone and should never be seen as an extension of any political campaign or a platform for promoting a particular candidate or political party.
He added that genuine political leadership should be earned through integrity, dedicated service and the confidence of the people, rather than through pressure or any form of coercion.
He further appealed to politicians to conduct their campaigns peacefully and allow voters to exercise their constitutional rights without interference. He also urged traditional rulers across the country to remain neutral and continue serving as fathers to all members of their communities, irrespective of political affiliation.
