The Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Rashidi Ladoja has cautioned political actors against exploiting religion for mobilisation ahead of future elections, warning that such divisive tendencies have no place in modern democratic governance.
Speaking during an Eid-el-Fitr interview at his Bodija residence in Ibadan, the monarch stressed that Nigeria must move beyond identity-based politics and embrace unity across religious and cultural lines.
According to him, religion should never be used as a tool for political advantage, noting that people of different beliefs can coexist and contribute meaningfully to governance without conflict.
While addressing growing concerns over insecurity in parts of Oyo State, the Olubadan provided a different perspective, revealing that many reported kidnapping incidents are not acts of organised terrorism but opportunistic crimes driven largely by extortion.
He cited recent cases within Ibadan, including incidents around the Challenge axis and along the Oluyole corridor of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, where victims were abducted in quick succession, heightening public anxiety.
The monarch, however, disclosed that security agencies have recorded breakthroughs, with suspects arrested and victims rescued in some of the incidents. He noted that such progress indicates that authorities are gradually tackling the root causes of the problem.
Oba Ladoja further explained that the evolving pattern of crime where perpetrators move across locations rather than operate from fixed bases has made detection more complex, but assured residents that both security agencies and local structures are actively responding.
Beyond insecurity, the Olubadan identified land grabbing as a more pressing and potentially damaging challenge to Ibadan’s socio-economic growth.
He warned that the activities of land grabbers pose a serious threat to investment, as individuals who legitimately acquire land often face disputes or illegal takeovers before development can commence.
According to the monarch, this trend could discourage investors and slow down development if not urgently addressed.
He emphasised that the traditional institution, in collaboration with the government, is not relenting in tackling the menace. He noted that efforts are ongoing to strengthen community vigilance, revive traditional security structures, and mobilise local support systems to maintain order.
The royal father added that while security challenges persist, they are being addressed progressively, assuring residents that Ibadanland remains under watch and coordinated response.
Meanwhile, the Oyo State Government has called on Muslim faithful to sustain the virtues of discipline and compassion cultivated during the Ramadan period.
Representing Governor Seyi Makinde at the Eid prayer ground in Agodi, Ibadan, the Deputy Governor, Adebayo Lawal, urged residents to continue promoting unity, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence.
He commended Muslims for their devotion during the 30-day fast and expressed optimism that the lessons of Ramadan would translate into stronger social harmony and collective progress in the state.
The deputy governor also noted that Oyo State continues to enjoy relative peace and stability, attributing this to the cooperation between government and residents.
Special prayers were offered for the continued peace, development, and prosperity of Oyo State and Nigeria at large, as thousands of Muslim faithful gathered to mark the end of Ramadan in an atmosphere of thanksgiving.
