A socio-political group, Democracy Watchers, has condemned Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde over his alleged threat to traditional rulers over political issues.

In a statement signed by its Publicity Secretary, Olumide Yusuf, the group described Makinde’s remarks as disrespectful to Yorubaland’s traditional institution and accused the governor of showing disregard for elders and monarchs.

Democracy Watchers alleged that some of Makinde’s political associates had also attacked traditional rulers who expressed views contrary to the governor’s interests, describing the development as an abuse of political power.

The group stressed that traditional rulers were not political appointees and had the right to express their views and associate with political parties of their choice.

“Traditional rulers are not political punching bags. They represent institutions older than elective offices,” the statement said.

It further accused Makinde of becoming intolerant ahead of the 2027 general elections, arguing that the governor should respect monarchs regardless of their political affiliations.

The group reminded Makinde that traditional rulers supported his emergence as governor in 2019 and his re-election in 2023, urging him not to regard them as enemies for exercising their rights.

According to Democracy Watchers, political offices are temporary, while traditional institutions will outlive individual administrations.

The group also criticised Makinde’s reported presidential ambition, warning him against using state resources to pursue what it described as a “phony presidential ambition.”

It called on the governor to withdraw his alleged offensive remarks and apologise to the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs.

The group urged traditional rulers in the state to remain courageous and committed to the welfare of their people, stressing that “the office will definitely outlive the officer.”