The Ogun State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has accused Governor Dapo Abiodun of threatening traditional rulers with removal from their thrones if the All Progressives Congress (APC) loses the forthcoming Remo Federal Constituency bye-election.
In a statement issued yesterday by its Publicity Secretary, Otunba Arc. Kayode Adebayo, the PDP alleged that the governor held a secret political meeting with some monarchs on Friday, August 8, 2025, where he issued the threat.
The party condemned the alleged action, describing it as “a shameful act that undermines the sanctity of traditional institutions” and an attempt to “use fear to control revered monarchs.”
“It is wrong for a governor to involve our respected royal fathers, who are custodians of our customs and traditions, in partisan politics,” the statement read. “Royal fathers must stand above political interests so that every member of the community can trust their leadership.”
The PDP accused the governor of having “no iota of respect for the sacred roles of traditional rulers” and called on the APC to caution him. It said the ruling party had a responsibility to “moderate and guide” the governor instead of “clapping for him in his desperate bid to avoid defeat.”
The opposition party further warned that threats, intimidation, and political interference have no place in a democracy, stressing that Ogun State citizens deserve the right to freely choose their representatives.
“We call on all men of good conscience to prevail on Governor Abiodun to stop using traditional rulers for political purposes. The thrones must not be reduced to APC’s canvassers on election day,” the PDP said.
The statement assured that, if elected, the PDP would continue to engage traditional rulers with “utmost respect and regard,” prioritising their concerns and protecting the dignity of their offices.
The Remo Federal Constituency bye-election is scheduled to hold on Saturday, August 16, 2025.