Governor Ayo Fayose of Ekiti State has warned kingmakers in the state against playing politics with the selection of traditional rulers in their communities.

The governor said the traditional institution is too sacred to toy with as the consequences of doing such could be unpleasant.

Speaking in Ikere Ekiti on Saturday during the coronation of the Ogoga of Ikere, Oba Adejimi Adu Alagbado, Fayose condemned attempts by regents to manipulate the selection of an Oba to favour some unnamed individuals.

Noting that the position of a regent is a stop-gap before the selection of a substantive monarch, the governor further warned, “Under my watch, I won’t allow any kingmaker to play politics with the selection of any monarch. When I assumed office, there were about 12 vacant stools and to the glory of God, we have peacefully resolved and installed six monarchs.

“The role of regent is temporary; kingmakers should not be playing politics with the selection of Obas. Within the last six months, we have installed six Obas. Any civil servant that meddles in the affairs of selecting an Oba will be dealt with. A kingmaker must have the courage to openly line up behind his choice”.

While affirming that the choice of the new Ogoga enjoyed overwhelming support, Gov. Fayose pledged that his administration would give the town the attention it deserves.

Fayose promised that within the next two weeks, the dualisation of Ado-Ikere Road would be extended to Ikere township.

A prominent indigene of Ikere and former President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN), commended Fayose for his unwavering commitment for truth and transparency in the selection of the new Ogoga.