At the funeral service of the late Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, held Friday at St. Peter’s Cathedral Church, the Archbishop of Ibadan Province and Bishop of Ibadan North Diocese, Most Rev’d Williams Aladekugbe, delivered a stern message to Nigeria’s political class, denouncing the growing trend of one-term promises ahead of the 2027 elections.
Archbishop Aladekugbe, while paying tribute to the late monarch — a retired Army Major and 43rd Olubadan who passed away on July 7 — described such pledges as a “scam” motivated by desperation rather than a genuine intent to serve. He argued that these promises are political gimmicks used to win public trust but often abandoned once power is secured.
“Any politician bargaining for only one single term is showing desperation — and it will not work in Nigeria,” he declared. He also criticised performative acts, such as politicians serving food at public events, calling them hollow gestures that fail to address the country’s real challenges.
The cleric condemned the early focus on 2027 campaigns while Nigerians face worsening economic hardship, saying, “To talk about 2027 now is a disgrace to governance… an abuse of the people’s mandate.” He faulted government claims of economic stability despite rising prices, telecom tariffs, and deepening poverty.
Turning to the late Oba Olakulehin’s legacy, Aladekugbe described him as “a leader of grace with a heart full of compassion,” crediting his reign with peace, development, and transformation in Ibadanland.
The service, attended by dignitaries including Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, top military officials, and political leaders, combined solemn farewell with a pointed critique of Nigeria’s political direction.
His remarks come against the backdrop of a one-term pledge by 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, who insists such a commitment is possible — a stance that has sparked nationwide debate.
