The monarch disclosed on Monday during a press briefing in commemoration of the 2026 Odun Omo-Olowu Festival in Oke Ago Owu, Abeokuta,
The monarch urged young people to make informed electoral decisions by examining the backgrounds, track records and capacity of candidates seeking their votes rather than allowing financial inducements to influence their choices.
Oba Adediran, who emphasised the importance of political awareness among youths, said they must take responsibility for determining the quality of leadership they want by researching the profiles and achievements of candidates.
“We are saying our youths should not be used in any form for political campaign. Our youths should sit down and go through the profiles of people they are voting for,” he said.
The traditional ruler encouraged youths to investigate the personal histories, family backgrounds and accomplishments of politicians before deciding whether they deserve their support.
“Who are they? Where are they coming from? When we were growing up we used to read biographies. Google their biography, know them. What’s their strength? Who is their father? Who is their mother? What have they done that you have to vote for them? These are pointers that youths have to follow so that you will know how to direct your path,” the monarch said.
He also condemned vote-buying and the growing tendency among some young people to pursue quick financial gains without considering the long-term consequences of their actions.
According to him, money offered by politicians to influence electoral decisions provides only temporary benefits and should not be allowed to undermine the future of the youths or the development of society.
“Life is not just anyhow. Somebody doesn’t just bring money and give you money and say we are voting. Temporary money is nothing,” Oba Adediran said.
He stressed that building a sustainable future required a solid foundation, urging young people to resist the temptation of exchanging their political choices or physical strength for short-term financial rewards.
“If you don’t have proper foundation, you cannot go high. So please we encourage you, don’t use your strength, don’t be used for temporary money,” he added.
The monarch further urged eligible voters to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), participate actively in the electoral process and encourage others to exercise their civic responsibilities peacefully.
He maintained that youths should channel their energy towards constructive political participation rather than violence, intimidation or activities capable of undermining the credibility of elections.
He urged young people to recognise their influence in the democratic process and use their votes to support candidates whose records and leadership abilities align with the aspirations of the people.
