Oba Wahab Oyedotun, the Orangun of Ila in Osun State, has denied endorsing any candidate ahead of the 2026 governorship election, insisting he remains politically neutral.

The monarch’s clarification followed a statement by the Osun State Government claiming that a delegation of Ila-Orangun chiefs visited Governor Ademola Adeleke and pledged support for his re-election on behalf of the traditional ruler and the community.

Speaking at his palace, Oba Oyedotun said “I could not favour any political party because many of my subjects belong to different political groups”.

He stressed that his primary concern is the development of Ila-Orangun rather than partisan politics.

The royal father urged traditional rulers across Yorubaland to avoid political divisions, noting that politicians from different parties remain their subjects and often maintain relationships despite political differences.

While acknowledging that those behind the endorsement are members of his community, the monarch said he was uncomfortable with the use of his name, stressing that he neither authorised nor approved any endorsement.

“What I found disturbing is the way they dropped my name,” he added.