Satguru Maharaj Ji Advocates for Tinubu's 2027 Re-election and Cautions Against Arrest of Activist
Satguru Maharaj Ji, the esteemed founder of the One Love Family, has issued a compelling appeal to all Nigerians, transcending ethnic, religious, and political boundaries, to rally behind President Bola Tinubu for a second term in the upcoming 2027 presidential election. This significant call was made in a detailed statement released from Ibadan, Oyo State, where Maharaj Ji emphasized the importance of national unity and continuity in leadership.
Call for Support Amid Political Landscape
In his statement, Maharaj Ji highlighted President Tinubu's extensive experience in global politics and praised his leadership, urging citizens, particularly the youth and students, to ignore what he termed an external information war. He argued that re-electing Tinubu would help sustain ongoing progress, strengthen national cohesion, and ensure long-term stability and prosperity for Nigeria. Maharaj Ji's endorsement comes at a critical time as political discussions intensify ahead of the 2027 polls.
Defense of Free Speech and Human Rights
Simultaneously, Maharaj Ji addressed the controversy surrounding Yoruba Nation activist Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho. He cautioned security authorities, specifically the Department of State Services (DSS), against taking any punitive actions against Adeyemo over comments linked to the next general election. Describing Adeyemo as a consistent advocate for human rights, Maharaj Ji asserted that the public reaction to the activist's remarks has been exaggerated.
He maintained that robust opinions on national matters should not lead to intimidation or arrest, warning that restricting free speech could undermine democratic values and erode justice and fairness in society. Maharaj Ji called for restraint and dialogue, urging citizens to remain calm and resist attempts to politicize the issue, while promoting tolerance across different regions of the country.
Context of Security Concerns and Political Tensions
This intervention follows calls by the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) for security agencies to invite or arrest Adeyemo. HURIWA National Coordinator Emmanuel Onwubiko cited viral audio and video clips in which the activist was reported to have warned opposition figures, including Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, against campaigning in the South West, labeling such statements as dangerous, unlawful, and capable of inciting political violence.
Maharaj Ji countered this by emphasizing Adeyemo's record of advocacy rather than provocation, arguing that democracy thrives best when citizens can express their views freely without fear. He also took the opportunity to congratulate President Tinubu on his 74th birthday, reiterating his support for the president's re-election bid.
Broader Political Developments
In related news, the political landscape has seen other tensions, such as the recent demolition of part of President Tinubu's campaign office in Makurdi, Benue State. Officials of the Benue State Urban Development Board pulled down the perimeter fence of the building, which also serves as the state secretariat of the Ahmed Bola Tinubu Support Group, sparking controversy and political strain in the state. The office had been inaugurated just a week prior in a ceremony attended by supporters from Benue and neighboring North-Central states, convened by Dr. Mathias Byuan, National Coordinator of the Tinubu Support Group.
As Nigeria navigates these complex political dynamics, Maharaj Ji's statements underscore the ongoing debates over free speech, security, and electoral support, setting the stage for a heated pre-election period leading up to 2027.
