The Iba of Kishi, Oba Moshood Oyekola Aweda Lawal, Arowoduye II, formally endorsed Shina Peller on Friday, marking a pivotal moment in the 2027 Oyo North Senate race. Peller, accompanied by APM executives, loyalists, and his mother, Silifat Abeo Abiola Peller, known as Lady Peller, visited the monarch’s palace in Irepo Local Government Area. The event, described as a homecoming, highlighted Peller’s deep familial ties to Kishi land, where his mother’s lineage traces back to the late Soliu Ali, a revered Chief Imam. The monarch blessed Peller as a ‘true son of the soil,’ offering prayers for his electoral success. Kola Popoola, SSA on Media and Publicity to Peller, emphasized the historical significance of the visit, framing it as a fusion of cultural and political capital for the senatorial bid.
Peller articulated a vision centered on unifying Oyo North’s 13 local government areas, leveraging his multifaceted connections. He cited his father’s origins in Oke Ogun I, his mother’s roots in Oke Ogun II (Kishi), and his academic background in Ogbomosho, where he earned degrees. The candidate positioned himself as the only contender with both legislative experience and a comprehensive understanding of the district’s geographical and cultural diversity. His campaign emphasizes seasoned political leadership to address the region’s complex interests, a claim he argued would ensure effective representation at the 11th National Assembly. The endorsement by the Iba of Kishi, a figure of immense traditional authority, underscores Peller’s strategy of blending cultural legitimacy with political expertise.
The royal endorsement elevates Peller’s profile in a race dominated by competing regional and party interests. Analysts note that the Iba of Kishi’s support could sway voters in Kishi and adjacent areas, where traditional leadership holds significant influence. Peller’s campaign now hinges on translating this backing into tangible voter mobilization, particularly in Oyo North’s three major geographical blocs. With the 2027 elections approaching, the alliance between Peller and the Kishi monarchy signals a strategic move to consolidate power through both heritage and institutional experience, positioning him as a central figure in the senatorial contest.
The broader implications of this endorsement reflect the interplay between traditional authority and modern political campaigns in Nigeria. By aligning with the Iba of Kishi, Peller gains access to a network of influence that could shape electoral outcomes. However, his ability to maintain this support will depend on delivering on promises of unity and development. As the race intensifies, the fusion of cultural heritage and political strategy exemplified by Peller’s campaign highlights the evolving dynamics of electoral politics in Oyo State.