The Kwara South Youth Congress (KSYC), a pro-democracy organisation advocating for the rights and welfare of residents in the Kwara South Senatorial District, has criticised recent political endorsements by some traditional rulers ahead of the 2027 elections, describing the move as “insensitive” in the face of worsening insecurity in the region.
In a statement signed by the group’s Publicity Secretary, Adejare Bashir, the KSYC said it found it disturbing that several monarchs appeared preoccupied with political alignments while communities in Kwara South continue to grapple with relentless attacks, kidnappings, and loss of lives.
Bashir lamented that the region has witnessed a surge in violent crimes in recent months, with over 200 persons reportedly abducted and many others killed. He added that some traditional rulers have been displaced from their palaces and places of worship attacked, yet these painful realities have not reflected in the actions of the affected monarchs.
“It is deeply unfortunate that Kwara South has become increasingly vulnerable, recording a disturbing rise in kidnapping and banditry,” Bashir said. “Despite the growing number of casualties and the traumatising payment of ransoms, our revered traditional rulers appear more concerned with endorsing a candidate from Kwara North. This is a profound disrespect to the victims and their bereaved families.”
He maintained that while several aspirants from Kwara South, across various political parties, have already shown interest in vying for the governorship in 2027, recent political activities by the monarchs fall short of fairness and justice.
According to him, the traditional rulers have repeatedly aligned themselves with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), citing their high-profile meeting at Ajase Ipo High School months ago which he described as a “proxy endorsement” of the current governor and another meeting with monarchs from Kwara North last week.
“This consistent partisanship undermines their sacred role as neutral fathers of all,” he added. “Traditional rulers must remain above politics. Their moral authority is diminished when they openly tilt toward any party or aspirant.”
Bashir urged the monarchs to retrace their steps and put the collective interest of Kwara South first, stressing that neutrality is essential in preserving public trust.
The group also encouraged governorship hopefuls from the district to intensify their engagements ahead of the 2027 polls.
In the same vein, the KSYC called on socio-cultural and youth-based organisations including the Igbomina Youth Assembly, KWAYORG, Kwara South Youth Assembly, Ekiti Navigators, Ibolo Peoples Congress, and others to remain independent and committed to the advancement of the region.
“The development and dignity of Kwara South depend on our collective ability to act with fairness, courage, and integrity as we work toward a more equitable future,” the statement added.
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