By Amuda Dan Sulaiman Fab
Traditional rulers from the South East Yagba District in Yagba East Local Government Area have lampooned former senator Dino Melaye over his recent verbal attacks on Hon. Leke Abejide, describing the comments as “unprovoked, disrespectful and unbefitting of a statesman.”
In a statement circulated to journalists, the monarchs faulted Melaye’s viral video targeting the lawmaker representing Yagba Federal Constituency, saying the tone and language deployed by the ex-lawmaker were “insulting, baseless and unbecoming of a Yoruba descendant who should embody the Omoluabi ethos.”
The rulers stated that they were “shocked and disappointed” by Melaye’s remarks, insisting that Abejide has consistently demonstrated leadership capacity, humility, and commitment to the development of Yagba land.
They added that the lawmaker’s records were visible across communities in the constituency, making the attack on him “not only unjustifiable but suspicious.”
They said, “Elder Leke Abejide remains a respected son of the land whose developmental strides and people-oriented representation deserve commendation, not ridicule from any quarter.”
The traditional rulers accused Melaye of engaging in what they described as “politics of bitterness and deliberate provocation,” warning that such conduct was not in the best interest of Yagba people nor the larger Okun nation.
They also reminded political actors that public office holders, past or present, must exercise restraint, maturity and decorum in their utterances, especially on issues capable of generating unnecessary tension within the constituency.
The monarchs cautioned that the peace and unity of Yagba land must never be sacrificed on the altar of political rivalry, personal grievances or ego-driven confrontations.
They said they would continue to defend any leader committed to the progress of the land, irrespective of political affiliation.
Reaffirming their position, the royal fathers passed a vote of confidence on Abejide, noting that he has earned their support through his performance and conduct.
They said they would no longer tolerate further attacks on his person, reputation, or mandate.
They added that their intervention became necessary to discourage political actors from personalizing political contests or dragging reputable sons of Yagba land into needless controversy ahead of future political activities.
The monarchs prayed for continued divine and ancestral guidance for Abejide and urged him not to be distracted by what they termed “unwarranted provocations” but to remain focused on delivering quality representation to the people.
The statement was jointly signed by 31 traditional rulers across the South East Yagba District, led by HRM Oba Alhaji S.A. Mohammed, Olukotun of Ife-Olukotun (Chairman), and HRM Oba Lamidi Folorunsho Ayeni, Elejuku of Ejuku (Vice Chairman), among others.
