By Ola Kay
The World Institute for Peace, WIP, has condemned in strongest terms an alleged instigation of violence by His Royal Highness,HRH Alapomu of Apomu, Osun State during the 2023 election in the country, following a widely circulated video on various social media platforms which the group noted was affirmed by the traditional ruler himself.
WIP, led by its Executive Director, Lamina Kamiludeen Omotoyosi, vehemently denounced the trending video and called upon security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation into the monarch’s actions.
“Traditional rulers are expected to serve as agents of peace in the society, embodying the aspirations of the common man.
“It is intolerable for a figure of authority such as HRH Alapomu to foment violence and disrupt the tranquility during a critical period like an election.
“The primary duty of traditional rulers should be to foster unity, concord, and peaceful cohabitation among their subjects.
“The conduct of HRH Alapomu not only contravenes the tenets of peace and unity but also establishes a perilous precedent for other traditional rulers to emulate. It is imperative for leaders occupying positions of influence to lead by example and advocate for peace and stability within their communities.
“The World Institute for Peace implores all traditional rulers in Nigeria to prioritize peace and non-violence in their leadership roles. They should leverage their sway to cultivate understanding and dialogue among their people, rather than inciting violence and discord,” emphasized Mr. Omotoyosi.
As to why this has become of interest to the group, the WIP Executive Director, in a separate chat with The Pinnacle Times stated that the event played out at a gathering hosted recently by a house of representative member, where the monarch allegedly referred to using whatever means to win an election, including violent means. The group expressed grave concern over the monarch utterances and for openly meddling in politics against his role as a royal father.
The monarch was said to have addressed a gathering in Yoruba by adding that no opportunity should be allowed an opposition to take the reigns of power and doesn’t matter if that should resort to war: ” Bo le dogun kodogun…., ” he stated in the video
In conclusion, the statement by WIP also noted that traditional rulers are known to hold a sacred responsibility to uphold peace and harmony within their domains, adding that any deviation from this noble duty will undermine the fabric of society and jeopardize the well-being of the populace. “It is incumbent upon all leaders, especially those in positions of authority, to champion the cause of peace and unity for the greater good of their communities,” stated the WIP Executive Director
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