The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi Ojaja II, and legendary Yoruba cultural icon and Drummer of Peace, Prince Adewale Laoye, have called on youths in Osun State to reject political violence and embrace peace ahead of the 2026 governorship election.
The duo made the call during a peace and cultural event organised by Laoye, founder and Director of Aafin Ilu (Palace of Drums), in Ede, Osun State, under the theme, “Promoting Peace Through Drums, Not Guns/Bombs.”
The event attracted thousands of participants from across the country, including traditional rulers, religious leaders, government officials, youths, community leaders, representatives of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), National Orientation Agency (NOA), civil society organisations and other stakeholders.
Artists, poets, chanters and singers also entertained participants with traditional performances, using music and cultural expressions to promote peaceful coexistence and responsible democratic participation.
Represented by his wife, Olori Aderonke Ogunwusi, the Ooni urged youths not to allow politicians to use them as instruments of violence before, during or after the election.
He said the traditional drum had historically served as a powerful means of communication and community mobilisation, stressing that its message in the present circumstance must be one of peace and unity.
“For centuries, the drum has been the heartbeat of our people. Before newspapers, before radio, before social media, our drums spoke to our communities.
“Today, we return to that powerful symbol. Our drums will not call for conflict. Our drums will not encourage division. Our drums will not spread fear. Instead, every beat you hear today carries one message: peace,” the monarch said.
The Ooni stressed that no election was worth the loss of human lives, urging political actors and their supporters to prioritise the peaceful conduct of the electoral process.
“Our theme, ‘Promoting Peace Through Drums, Not Guns/Bombs,’ is more than a slogan. It is a call to conscience. It reminds us that no election is worth the blood of any citizen.
“No political ambition is greater than the life of a young man or woman. No disagreement should rob our communities of the harmony we have worked so hard to build,” he added.
Also speaking, Laoye appealed to political leaders to ensure that their campaigns promoted hope, tolerance and unity rather than hostility.
He urged political actors to recognise the influence they wield over their supporters and use it to promote peaceful participation in the election.
“To our political leaders and actors, regardless of party affiliation, I respectfully appeal to you today. Your supporters listen to your words. Your followers imitate your actions.
“Let your campaigns inspire hope instead of hostility. Let your speeches build bridges instead of walls. Let this election be remembered not for violence, but for maturity, civility and respect,” Laoye said.
He particularly charged young Nigerians to resist attempts to recruit them into political violence, warning that their future should not be sacrificed for the temporary interests of politicians.
“To our young people, you are the heartbeat of this nation. Never allow yourselves to become instruments of violence in pursuit of someone else’s ambition.
“Your future is too valuable to be sacrificed for temporary political gains. Be ambassadors of peace in your homes, your schools, your communities and across social media,” he said.
Laoye also expressed appreciation to the Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, for his commitment to peace, cultural preservation and development in the state.
He said the peace campaign was intended to ensure that the message of peaceful coexistence resonated across Osun before, during and after the election.
He added that peace must be built through everyday choices, including dialogue, understanding, forgiveness and mutual respect.
