Ahead of the 2027 general elections, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, has cautioned political actors against using religion as a tool for electoral advantage.
The monarch said Nigeria must move beyond divisive tendencies as another election cycle approaches.
Speaking with newsmen at his Bodija residence in Ibadan on the occasion of Eid el-Fitr, Oba Ladoja stated that contemporary democratic realities no longer support the manipulation of religious sentiments for political gain.
He said, “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.”
The monarch, who also addressed concerns over insecurity in parts of Oyo state, particularly recent incidents of kidnapping, stated that while such challenges persist, security agencies are making steady progress in tackling them.
According to the monarch, 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 cited a recent incident along the Oluyole axis of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, disclosing that suspects had been apprehended and victims rescued.
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“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.”
While acknowledging security concerns, the monarch 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, however, assured residents that traditional institutions, in collaboration with government authorities, are 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.”
