Lekan Yusuf, Ibadan
The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has cautioned political actors against exploiting religion for political mobilisation, urging Nigerians to embrace unity and shun divisive tendencies as the country approaches another election cycle.
The monarch gave the warning during an interview at his Bodija residence in Ibadan as part of activities marking the Eid-el-Fitri celebration.
According to him, the nation’s democratic evolution has rendered religious sentiments obsolete as a tool for political gain, stressing that governance should be driven by inclusivity and shared responsibility.
“We have gone beyond using religion as a basis for politics. People from different backgrounds come together, play their roles and move on. Religion should not be a factor in our politics,” he said.
Addressing concerns over security, the traditional ruler acknowledged recent kidnapping incidents in parts of Oyo State, but assured residents that the situation remains under control. He explained that many of the cases were criminal acts aimed at extortion rather than coordinated terrorism, noting that security agencies have recorded successes in tackling the menace.
Citing a recent incident along the Oluyole axis of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, Oba Ladoja disclosed that suspects had been apprehended and victims rescued, describing the development as a sign of progress in ongoing security efforts.
While downplaying insecurity, the monarch identified land grabbing as a more pressing threat to the socio-economic stability of Ibadan, warning that the trend could discourage investment and hinder development.
“The major problem we have is land grabbing. It can destroy investment. You acquire land and before you return, someone else has taken over. That is a serious concern,” he stated.
He, however, assured that the traditional institution is working closely with the government to curb the menace, adding that local vigilante groups and community structures are being strengthened to maintain order.
“The traditional institution is not sitting idle. We are sensitising our people and mobilising local vigilantes. Ibadan has strong traditional structures and we are reviving them to maintain order,” he added.
Meanwhile, Seyi Makinde has called on Muslims to sustain the virtues of humility, kindness and forgiveness imbibed during Ramadan.
Represented by his deputy, Adebayo Lawal, the governor delivered the message at the Eid Ground in Agodi, Ibadan, shortly after the Eid prayers.
He congratulated the Muslim faithful on the successful completion of the fasting period and prayed for continued peace, prosperity and answered prayers across the state.
“We thank Almighty Allah for sparing our lives to witness the end of Ramadan. We pray that all our supplications will be answered and that the season will bring blessings to our homes,” Lawal said.
He noted that Oyo State continues to enjoy relative peace and development, attributing the progress to collective support for the administration, while urging residents to remain united and committed to the growth of the state.
Special prayers were later offered for the success of the government, sustained peace in the state and national progress, as dignitaries and thousands of Muslim faithful gathered in an atmosphere of devotion and celebration.
