Traditional rulers and chiefs from Yewaland, Ogun State, have advised indigenes aspiring for elective offices in 2019 not to turn the Oronna festival on November 19 at Ilaro into a “political rally or battle field”.
The Chairman, Oronna Festival Planning Committee, Abidemi Akinola, gave the advice at a briefing in Abeokuta, the state capital.
Akinola rued that the venue of the Oronna cultural festival often morphed into a battle field whenever the politicians arrive for the celebration.
He noted that the problem is not really with the politicians but their supporters who clash with one another, saying such clashes do not advance the cause of Yewa people in the reckoning of the other zones.
According to him, this has also affected the zone’s bids in capturing important post, particularly the governorship slot.
“We can’t be on the losing side every time, since when we have been fighting, what have we gained?
“We don’t want anybody to turn Ilaro to a battle field. Oronna Day should not be a political rally. When it comes to the real battle, we lose again and again.
“Why do they always fight at Oronna festival? Other zones are looking and when they see it, they will say we are not matured. Who should take the blame when that happened? It is us of course,” he said.
He disclosed that parts of the programmes slated for the celebration were designed to showcase the rich culture and traditions of the Yewa as well as empower the youth.