By Steve Oko
UMUAHIA — A traditional ruler in Bende Local Government Area of Abia State has drawn criticism over a viral video in which he was alleged to have made remarks concerning voters who may not support the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, in the 2027 general election.
The monarch’s identity has been withheld.
Reacting to the video, a Bende indigene, Mr. Peter Ekekwe, in a statement issued on Friday in Umuahia, described the reported remarks as inappropriate and expressed concern over what he said was the increasing involvement of traditional institutions in partisan politics.
According to Ekekwe, democratic principles guarantee citizens the constitutional right to vote for candidates of their choice without intimidation or undue influence.
“A healthy democracy relies entirely on the freedom of citizens to think, choose and associate without fear. Every Nigerian who has attained the legal voting age is mature enough to make an independent political decision guided by conscience, conviction and the truth,” he said.
He argued that no traditional ruler or political figure should seek to influence how citizens exercise their voting rights.
Ekekwe also said traditional rulers are expected to serve as symbols of unity within their communities, regardless of political affiliations.
“Our traditional rulers occupy sacred stools because they are expected to unite their people irrespective of political affiliation. The palace should never become a campaign office. The throne belongs to every son and daughter of the community, not to any political party or candidate,” he stated.
He maintained that political leadership should be earned through public confidence, integrity and service rather than through any form of coercion.
Ekekwe further urged political actors to conduct their campaigns peacefully and allow voters to make their choices freely, stressing the need to protect democratic values and the neutrality of traditional institutions.
He also called on traditional rulers across the country to remain non-partisan and continue to serve as fathers to all members of their communities, irrespective of political leanings.
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