The Orangun of Ila Orangun, Oba Abdulwahab Kayode Adedotun Bibire II, has dismissed reports claiming he endorsed Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke for a second term ahead of the 2026 governorship election, insisting that the traditional institution remains neutral in partisan politics.
In a statement released on Monday by the High Chiefs of Ila Orangun, including the Elemo, Ejemu, Odode, Osolo and Ode Ilu Ila, the palace described the reports as false and misleading, stressing that the monarch had not given support to any governorship candidate.
The clarification followed claims by the Osun State Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi, that a delegation of chiefs led by the Obalotun of Ila Orangun, Chief Douglas Oyinlola, visited Governor Adeleke on behalf of the monarch and pledged support for his re election bid.
Reacting to the development, the palace said the delegation neither sought nor received the approval of the Orangun before meeting with the governor. It maintained that the monarch neither authorised nor instructed anyone to represent him during the visit.
According to the statement, the palace was not informed about the meeting and played no role in organising or endorsing it. It added that those who participated did so in their personal capacities and should not be seen as speaking for the traditional institution or the people of Ila Orangun.
The monarch also urged political actors to refrain from dragging traditional institutions into partisan activities that could heighten political tension within the state.
While acknowledging that individual chiefs have the right to express their personal political opinions, the palace emphasised that no one should invoke the name or authority of the Orangun without his clear approval. It added that internal steps were already being taken to prevent a repeat of such incidents.
The statement also praised the Senator representing Osun Central Senatorial District, Olubiyi Fadeyi, for attracting development projects to Ila Orangun. These include efforts toward the dualisation of a major road, the approval of a 132kVA 60MVA power substation and the establishment of Ajagunla Radio Station.
At the same time, the monarch acknowledged the Osun State Government for completing and commissioning the road project, describing it as a welcome development for the community.
Oba Adedotun concluded by appealing to politicians and their supporters to conduct their activities peacefully, shun violence and place the unity, stability and progress of Osun State above partisan interests.
