The traditional ruler of Okene, Dr. Isah Okatahi, has clarified that the visit of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan to his palace has no political undertone.
The traditional ruler also affirmed that the advice he gave during the courtesy call was not political, but royal guidance rooted in justice, peace, and the collective progress of the people.
This clarification was contained in a press statement signed by the monarch and made available to the media
He emphasised that the palace remains a symbol of cultural unity, moral guidance, and protection of the people’s common good.
The statement reads in part: “It has come to public attention that Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing the good people of Kogi Central Senatorial District, recently paid a courtesy visit to my royal palace, as the Ohi of Okene Metropolis and Grand Patron of Abdul Aziz Memorial College, Okene (AAMCO).
“The college is a premier secondary school in the old Kabba Province covering parts of present-day Kogi, Edo, and Kwara States.
“Her visit, which took place while en route to a function at the historic school, which I am the grand patron of, and was invited by the management of the school as a custom, was a culturally respectful gesture to the traditional authority and nothing more.
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“As expected of a father to all, I received her warmly and commended her on her continued gesture toward the students of the school and used the opportunity to address those present on the importance of unity, respect for constituted authority, and prioritizing the development of our people over political rivalry.
“I emphasised the need for peaceful coexistence and urged that public office holders act with dignity and responsibility as part of the steps toward restoring harmony and upholding the rule of law.
“This advice was not political, but a royal guidance rooted in justice, peace, and the collective progress of our people. I feel compelled to clarify any public misinterpretation of this visit.
“Any insinuation that the senator’s visit to my palace reflects shared political loyalty on my part is incorrect and unfortunate.
“It is important to reiterate that traditional rulers, especially one as revered as the Ohi of Okene, transcend partisan politics. The palace remains a symbol of cultural unity, moral guidance, and protection of the people’s common good.
“So, I spoke not as a politician but as a custodian of values and traditions, calling for peace, respect for the judiciary, and adherence to law and order.”
