The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has cautioned political actors against exploiting religion as a tool for electoral advantage, insisting that Nigeria must move beyond divisive tendencies as another election cycle approaches.
Speaking during an interview at his Bodija residence in Ibadan on the occasion of Eid al-Fitr, the monarch noted that contemporary democratic realities no longer support the manipulation of religious sentiments for political gain.
“We have gone beyond using religion as a basis for politics. That question does not arise. People from different backgrounds come together, play their roles and move on. Religion should not be a factor in our politics,” he said.
Oba Ladoja also addressed concerns over insecurity in parts of Oyo State, particularly incidents of kidnapping, stating that while such challenges persist, security agencies are making steady progress in tackling them.
According to him, many of the reported cases are criminal acts driven by extortion rather than organised terrorism.
“In Ibadanland, we are on top of the issues. I am not saying there are no problems, but they are being solved as they arise. Some of these incidents are not even organised kidnappings,” he explained.
The monarch cited a recent incident along the Oluyole axis of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, disclosing that suspects had been apprehended and victims rescued.
“Three of the suspects involved in the Oluyole case have been arrested and two victims freed. That shows we are getting to the root of the matter,” he added.
While acknowledging security concerns, the traditional ruler identified land grabbing as a more pressing threat to the socio-economic development of Ibadan, warning that it could deter investors and undermine growth.
“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 said.
He assured residents that the traditional institution, in collaboration with government authorities, is taking proactive steps to curb the menace, including strengthening community vigilance and reviving local security structures.
“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 stated.
Meanwhile, Seyi Makinde, Governor of Oyo State, has urged Muslims to sustain the virtues of humility, kindness and forgiveness cultivated during Ramadan.
The governor, represented by his deputy, Adebayo Lawal, delivered the message at the Eid Ground, Agodi, Ibadan, shortly after the Eid prayers.
He congratulated the Muslim Ummah on the successful completion of the 30-day fasting and prayed for continued peace, prosperity and answered prayers.
“We thank Almighty Allah for sparing our lives to witness the end of Ramadan. We pray that all our supplications during the period will be answered and that the season will bring fortune to our homes,” Lawal said.
The deputy governor noted that Oyo State has continued to enjoy relative peace, stability and development, attributing the progress to collective efforts and sustained public support.
He conveyed the governor’s appreciation to residents for their cooperation and urged continued backing for the administration to consolidate on its achievements.
Lawal further encouraged citizens to imbibe the lessons of Ramadan by promoting unity, compassion and tolerance in their daily lives.
Special prayers were later offered for the success of the administration, the continued peace of Oyo State and the overall progress of Nigeria, as dignitaries, including government officials, political leaders and Islamic clerics, joined thousands of Muslim faithful in marking the end of Ramadan in an atmosphere of devotion and thanksgiving.
