Chidinma Iroegbu
The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, has cautioned political actors ahead of the 2027 general elections to avoid exploiting religion for political gains, stressing that Nigeria’s democracy must move beyond divisive tendencies.
Speaking in Ibadan during the Eid-el-Fitr celebration, the monarch declared that religion should no longer play a role in electoral decisions, noting that evolving democratic realities demand issue-based politics.
“We have gone beyond using religion as a basis for politics. That question does not arise,” he said, adding that Nigerians from diverse backgrounds must work together irrespective of religious differences.
The traditional ruler emphasised that political participation should focus on competence and collective progress rather than identity-based divisions that could threaten national unity.
Addressing security concerns in Ibadan, Ladoja acknowledged incidents of kidnapping but maintained that authorities are making measurable progress in addressing such challenges.
He explained that many reported cases are criminal acts driven by financial motives rather than coordinated terrorism, stating that security agencies are responding effectively.
“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,” he said.
The monarch cited a recent incident along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, where suspects were apprehended and victims rescued, demonstrating ongoing efforts to curb insecurity.
“Three of the suspects involved have been arrested, and two victims freed. That shows we are getting to the root of the matter,” he added.
Despite these developments, Ladoja identified land grabbing as a more serious threat to the socio-economic stability of Ibadan, warning that it could discourage investment and disrupt 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,” he said.
He, however, assured residents that traditional institutions are working closely with government authorities to tackle the menace through community engagement and local security measures.
“The traditional institution is not sitting idle. We are mobilising vigilantes and strengthening our structures to maintain order,” the monarch stated.