PVAN warns Kwara monarchs against partisan politics
…. urges focus on insecurity and development
A Kwara-based pro-democracy organisation, the People’s Voice Advocacy Network (PVAN), has raised concerns over what it described as the increasing involvement of some traditional rulers in partisan political activities within the state.
The group cautioned that politics should be left to politicians while monarchs focus on security, unity, and development in their domains.
In a statement issued by its Deputy Publicity Secretary, Engr. Abdulraheem Kehinde, PVAN acknowledged that all citizens have the right to political views but stressed that traditional rulers hold a sacred and constitutionally neutral position in the country’s democratic structure. It said the open endorsement of political interests by royal fathers threatens the integrity and moral authority of the traditional institution.
According to the group, the rising discourse around the 2027 Kwara North agenda appears to be strongly aligned with the political interests of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), and any open support from monarchs may be misinterpreted as partisan endorsement.
“Traditional rulers are expected to serve as fathers to all, irrespective of political affiliation,” the statement read. “When they are seen openly supporting a partisan agenda, it not only erodes public confidence in the institution but also creates divisions within the communities they are meant to unify.”
PVAN reminded monarchs that their primary responsibility is to remain neutral arbiters and custodians of unity, urging them to channel their influence toward advocating stronger government action on pressing issues affecting their people.
“At a time when communities across the state are grappling with insecurity, economic hardship, declining infrastructure and other developmental challenges, traditional rulers should prioritize issues that directly affect the welfare of their people rather than engaging in activities that may heighten political tension,” the group stressed.
The organisation also warned the state government against exerting undue influence on royal fathers or using state resources to push partisan objectives, saying such actions could drag the revered institution into unnecessary controversy and undermine democratic values.
“The traditional institution must remain insulated from politics and political manipulation if it is to retain its dignity and fulfill its constitutional responsibilities,” PVAN stated.
It urged monarchs to uphold the dignity of their offices, maintain political neutrality ahead of the 2027 elections, and continue serving as custodians of peace and development.
PVAN reaffirmed its commitment to promoting good governance, civic responsibility, and the protection of democratic values in Kwara State and beyond.
