The Eselu of Eselu Kingdom in Yewa North Local Government Area of Ogun State, Oba Akintunde Akinyemi, has shared his views on the intricate relationship between traditional rulers and politics in Nigeria. During a birthday celebration held in Abeokuta, the monarch emphasized that it might be impossible for traditional rulers to completely stay out of politics, likening such a stance to “taking salt out of soup.”
Traditional Rulers and Politics: An Inseparable Connection
Oba Akinyemi addressed the delicate balance between tradition and governance, noting that politics is an inherent part of the role of traditional rulers, particularly in a democratic system. According to the royal father, the relationship between political officeholders and traditional institutions is vital for the development and well-being of communities.
“The truth of it is that it’s like taking salt out of the soup if any Kabiyesi says he’s not engaging in politics,” Oba Akinyemi explained. He further questioned, “Ask him who is his local government chairman, state governor—are they not politicians? Who are the ministers of the state—are they not politicians?” The monarch emphasized that traditional rulers cannot avoid political involvement, especially when local development often relies on the influence of politicians.
While he acknowledged that traditional rulers should avoid “dirty politics,” he pointed out that their participation in governance is unavoidable. He cited examples such as the issue of paramountcy (first class or second class titles) and the political nature of such decisions. “Even the issue of paramountcy—is it not politics? Some who are paramount rulers, who gave them the paramountcy? It’s politics,” he said.
Concerns Over Border Closure and Fuel Restrictions
Oba Akinyemi also expressed his concerns regarding the ongoing border closure, particularly the restrictions on fuel movements in border communities. He described the Federal Government’s policy as causing severe hardship to residents in these areas, especially in the wake of the removal of fuel subsidies.
“The government says petrol is being smuggled to neighboring countries, but that was when there was subsidized fuel,” Oba Akinyemi noted. “Now, with the removal of fuel subsidies and the high price of petrol, why is the border still closed?” The monarch raised questions about the continued closure despite changes in fuel pricing policies. He pointed out that border communities within 20 to 25 kilometers of the border are severely affected, with residents unable to take even small quantities of fuel outside the country.
Despite efforts to engage authorities on the issue, Oba Akinyemi said that little progress has been made in resolving the problem. “We’ve been making a lot of calls, write-ups, and media chats to the authorities, but when you look at the reason why they closed the border, it seems like there’s a disconnect between the economic policies of the President and the realities faced by the people in these areas,” he added.
The Role of Senator Solomon Adeola (Yayi) in Ogun West
While addressing the challenging economic situation, Oba Akinyemi praised Senator Solomon Adeola, known as Yayi, for his consistent intervention efforts in Ogun West Senatorial District. The monarch acknowledged the senator’s dedication to serving the people, particularly through his numerous projects aimed at improving the constituency.
“Yayi is doing extremely well. We’ve never had it this good in terms of giving the constituency this level of priority,” Oba Akinyemi said. “If you go anywhere in Ogun West now, you’ll see his work.”
Concluding his remarks, Oba Akinyemi urged for more responsive governance at the federal level, particularly to address the suffering of Nigerians in border communities. He stressed the need for policies that consider the welfare of the people, especially those who are bearing the brunt of harsh economic policies, such as the border closure.
Oba Akinyemi’s candid insights reflect the challenges faced by traditional rulers in Nigeria, balancing tradition with politics and advocating for the welfare of their communities in the face of national policies.
