A delegation of prominent traditional rulers from Kwara and Oyo States on Thursday paid a courtesy visit to All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship aspirant, Engr. Femi Sanni, popularly known as Araba, at his office in Ilorin.
The royal fathers were led by the Alaafin of Oyo, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owode I, alongside the Olusin of Ijara Isin, Oba Ademola Julius Ajibola, and the Oloro of Oro, Oba Joel Olaniyi Oyatoye Titiloye II. They were accompanied by other chiefs during the visit.
Although details of their discussions were not made public, the visit is widely seen as significant amid growing political activities ahead of the APC governorship primaries in Kwara State.
Speaking after receiving the monarchs, Araba described the visit as both humbling and inspiring, noting the enduring role of traditional institutions in shaping leadership and guiding society.
According to him, the royal fathers have remained a constant source of wisdom and encouragement in his personal and political journey.
“They were in Ilorin for other engagements and graciously decided to visit and pray for me,” he said. “I hold them in very high regard. Their counsel, blessings and fatherly guidance mean a lot, not just to me but to anyone privileged to receive them.”
The APC aspirant reiterated his respect for traditional rulers, emphasizing their importance as custodians of culture and stabilising forces in governance and community development.
Political observers note that such high-profile visits by respected monarchs often carry symbolic weight, especially in a state like Kwara where traditional institutions continue to wield moral influence among the people.
While the monarchs did not speak to the press, their presence at Araba’s office is likely to fuel speculations about growing support for his governorship ambition within influential circles.
The visit comes as consultations and alignments intensify within the APC ahead of what is expected to be a keenly contested primary election.
