Ekiti community leaders oppose alleged imposition of ‘underperforming representative’ by monarch
By Boye Oyeyemi
Stakeholders in Ekiti Central Federal Constituency have kicked against alleged moves by a traditional ruler to impose a candidate on constituents, warning against dragging traditional institutions into partisan politics.
The concern followed claims that the Ewi-in-Council is attempting to influence the state governor to back a third-term bid for a lawmaker described by critics as underperforming.
In a statement, the leader of APC Compatriots, Tolulope Aladetuyi, faulted the reported development, describing it as undemocratic and inconsistent with fairness.
He cautioned against politicising the Ewi’s palace, noting that traditional institutions are expected to promote unity and preserve cultural heritage, not advance political interests.
Aladetuyi stressed that the Ekiti Central seat covers Ado and Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Governments, insisting that representation decisions must reflect the collective will of the people.
He added that public office should be earned through performance, warning that attempts to retain ineffective leadership would erode public confidence.
The group also raised concerns over alleged pressure on traditional authorities, urging the Ewi-in-Council to remain neutral and support transparent primaries as the legitimate path to candidate selection.
