The Ooni, who gave the message through the Palace Director, Media and Public Affairs, Moses Olafare, said Nigerians must be thankful to God, who kept everyone to see the end of 2022 despite economic and security challenges facing the country.

His words: “The House of Oduduwa congratulates Nigerians at home and in the Diaspora. More years shall be witnessed in good health and wealth on this planet.

“We are in campaign period, but everything has to be done within the confines of the Constitution and the acceptable moral principles of our society.”

According to him, 2023 has opened another chapter in the country’s history, as time to enthrone leaders that will rule for another four years has come.

“While we enter another electioneering moment, I beseech INEC to conduct credible elections. Our politicians should endeavour to run peaceful campaigns devoid of bloodshed, as no ambition of any politician is worth the life of any Nigerian.

“Therefore, let the will of the people prevail by allowing them to exercise their franchise on election day. Equally allow their votes to count as they elect who controls their resources for the next four years,” the monarch stated.

For him, youths remain the future and glory of the country; hence, they should desist from taking part in any illicit electoral behaviour.

He added: “Furthermore, whoever wins based on the will of the masses should be magnanimous in victory by making life comfortable for the poor masses, and whoever loses should be supportive in ensuring that the dividends of democracy get to every and cranny of Nigeria.”