Traditional rulers in the Southwest have called on their counterparts across the region to mobilise support for President Bola Tinubu's second-term ambition, ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
The monarchs also backed the retention of the presidency in Southern Nigeria in 2027, arguing that power rotation promotes political stability, equity and national cohesion.
The position was contained in a communiqué issued on Wednesday after a meeting of Southwest traditional rulers at the palace of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, in Ibadan, Oyo State.
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The communiqué, read by the Alake of Egbaland, Oba Aremu Gbadebo, said the monarchs endorsed Tinubu's re-election bid and urged traditional institutions to encourage their subjects to support the President.
They maintained that the rotational presidency arrangement had contributed to stability and inclusiveness, insisting that the next presidential election should produce another leader from the South.
The traditional rulers also threw their weight behind the Federal Government's removal of the petrol subsidy, describing the policy as a significant decision in the management of the country's economy.
On security, the monarchs endorsed the proposed establishment of state police, saying it would strengthen internal security and improve responses to security challenges across the country.
They urged traditional rulers to sensitise young people in their communities to prepare for possible employment and service opportunities that could emerge from the proposed security arrangement.
The council also commended Tinubu for establishing new military formations in Oyo State, saying the development would strengthen the Southwest's security architecture and improve the protection of lives and property.
On infrastructure, the monarchs praised ongoing Federal Government projects and other development initiatives across the region and the country, noting that they could stimulate economic activities and improve connectivity.
They pledged to deepen engagement with traditional rulers in Northern Nigeria and other parts of the country to promote mutual understanding, peace and national integration.
Ahead of the 2027 elections, the monarchs called for peaceful, free and credible polls at all levels, condemning violence, intimidation, vote-buying and other electoral malpractices.
They also pledged to sustain regular consultations on issues affecting the welfare, security and development of the Southwest and Nigeria.
The council urged Nigerians to remain law-abiding, support legitimate government initiatives and work collectively towards building a peaceful, secure and prosperous country.
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