The Sultan’s media team, in a statement signed by Prince Bashir Adefaka and made available to Naija News on Tuesday, described the claim as false, insisting that the Sultan, as a father figure to all Nigerians, could not make such a partisan political statement either publicly or privately.

Adefaka urged Nigerians to disregard and condemn what it described as a malicious attempt to drag the Sultan into partisan politics.

“Our simple response to the report is that it is not possible for the Sultan, as the father of all, to make such a statement, either publicly or in any other forum,” the statement said.

It further stated, “Let it be made clear once again that the institutions of monarchy and religion led by the Sultan are institutions of a father figure. As such, His Eminence cannot but remain within the purview of that role by offering fatherly, royal and spiritual blessings, as well as guidance, to Nigerian politicians who seek his counsel and blessings.

“The Sultan’s doors cannot be shut against anyone who comes to him, regardless of political affiliation or persuasion. His Eminence has consistently demonstrated that he is the father of all and will continue to relate with all Nigerians without discrimination.”

The Media Team called on members of the public to reject any attempt to misrepresent the Sultan’s position or associate him with the political campaign or candidacy of any individual ahead of the 2027 general elections.

It added that the Sultan remained committed to promoting peace, unity, stability and peaceful coexistence among Nigeria’s diverse peoples and faiths.

The statement also appealed to media practitioners and social media users to exercise restraint by verifying information before sharing reports capable of misleading the public or dragging traditional and religious institutions into partisan political controversies

Political observers believe the choice of a female running mate could broaden the party’s appeal among women, youths, and other key voting blocs across the state.

Hamzat, the Chief Executive Officer of Agidigbo FM, recently emerged as the Accord Party’s governorship candidate after declaring his ambition under the party’s platform, setting the stage for what is expected to be a keenly contested race in Oyo State.

If elected, Dr. Mrs. Bimpe Taiwo Adesokan would make history as the first woman to serve as the elected deputy governor of Oyo State, a milestone that would mark a new chapter in the state’s political history.

The provision requires the electoral body to publish the personal particulars, affidavits and credentials submitted by candidates within 21 days of receiving nominations from their political parties.

According to the commission, the exercise is intended to promote transparency and allow Nigerians to scrutinise the educational qualifications and other information supplied by candidates seeking elective office.

INEC explained that the documents would be available for public inspection at its offices nationwide, including state and local government offices.

The display gives interested members of the public an opportunity to review the information provided by the 19 presidential candidates and their running mates before the election.

The publication also allows individuals who believe that a candidate submitted false information or documents to take the appropriate legal steps provided under the Electoral Act.

The list of the 19 presidential candidates, their running mates and political parties is as follows: