Oba of Benin Backs Tinubu’s Second-Term Bid, Calls for Continuity
The Oba of Benin, His Majesty Oba Ewuare II, has expressed support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s bid for a second term in office. The monarch said the president deserves another term based on his assessment of the administration’s performance.
Oba Ewuare II made the statement on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, when members of the All Progressives Congress Presidential Campaign Council visited the Benin Palace in Edo State. The delegation was led by its Director-General, Abdulaziz Yari, who sought the monarch’s blessings and support for Tinubu’s re-election ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
Speaking during the visit, the Oba said Nigerians should allow the president to complete the work he started. He argued that political leaders should support policies that benefit the country rather than seek change simply for the sake of change.
“For somebody who is doing well, it is our prayer that he gets a renewed mandate,” the monarch said. He also urged Nigerians to support the president’s efforts where they believe those efforts are producing positive results.
The Benin monarch further called for greater cooperation among political leaders. He said opposition parties should perform their role in a democracy while also working with the ruling party in the national interest.
Oba Ewuare II stressed that the Benin throne remains non-partisan. He said his comments should not be interpreted as an endorsement of any political party. The monarch also cautioned against excessive criticism of political leaders, noting that no person or government is perfect.
Earlier, Yari told the monarch that the campaign council had come to seek royal blessings and support for Tinubu’s second-term ambition. The delegation included Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume, former Sokoto State Governor Aliyu Wamakko and former APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje.
Yari highlighted the administration’s reported achievements, including efforts to reduce food prices, improve exchange-rate stability and construct inter-regional roads. These claims formed part of the campaign council’s appeal for support ahead of the 2027 election.
Tinubu’s second-term bid has become a major issue in Nigeria’s political discussions ahead of the 2027 presidential election. The president has declared his intention to seek re-election, while opposition parties and other political groups continue to discuss their plans for the contest.
The Oba’s remarks add to the public debate over continuity in government and the direction of Nigeria’s leadership. His call for cooperation also highlights the role of traditional institutions in encouraging dialogue among political actors.
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