The Palace of His Royal Majesty, Oba Saheed Ademola Elegushi, has strongly denied allegations linking the traditional ruler to the failure of some politicians to secure their party tickets ahead of the next general elections, describing the claims as an orchestrated blackmail campaign.
In a statement issued by Temitope Oyefeso, Special Assistant on Public Affairs to the monarch, the palace reaffirmed its apolitical position and rejected attempts to drag the traditional institution into partisan politics.
According to the statement, Oba Elegushi remains a father figure to all political stakeholders and continues to welcome individuals across different political parties and affiliations to his palace without bias.
The palace cited a past instance involving the monarch’s younger brother, who had contested for political office, noting that Oba Elegushi supported the party leadership’s decision when they requested his brother to step down.
“This demonstrates the monarch’s longstanding commitment to neutrality and respect for party processes,” the statement noted.
The palace further emphasized that Oba Elegushi remains dedicated to promoting peace, unity, and development in Eti-Osa and Lagos State, pledging support for whoever emerges through democratic processes, irrespective of political affiliation, tribe, or religion.
The statement urged politicians dissatisfied with their political fortunes to focus on engaging the electorate rather than involving traditional institutions in political disputes.
The palace also warned that it would not hesitate to pursue legal action against individuals or groups continuing what it described as defamatory campaigns against the monarch.
Oba Elegushi’s palace reiterated its commitment to preserving the sanctity and neutrality of traditional institutions amid increasing political activities ahead of future elections.
