- The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, cautioned politicians against using religion for electoral gain ahead of 2027
- He emphasised that Nigeria’s democracy has evolved beyond religious-based politics
- Ladoja reassured residents that security agencies are making progress in tackling kidnapping and related crimes
The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has warned politicians across party lines to steer clear of using religion as a campaign tool ahead of the 2027 elections.
Speaking with journalists at his private residence in Bodija, Ibadan, during the Eid al-Fitr celebrations on Friday, March 20, the monarch stressed the need for Nigeria’s political space to rise above divisive religious sentiments.
Ladoja noted that modern democratic realities no longer support the exploitation of religion for political advantage, urging leaders to focus instead on unity and inclusive governance.
“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 stated.
Addressing security concerns in Ibadan and surrounding areas, the traditional ruler acknowledged ongoing challenges, particularly incidents of kidnapping.
However, he maintained that security agencies are making measurable progress.
“Many of the reported cases are criminal acts driven by extortion rather than organised terrorism. In Ibadan land, 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.
He referenced a recent incident along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway in the Oluyole axis, revealing that authorities had successfully intervened.
“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.
Despite the security situation, Ladoja identified land grabbing as a more serious threat to the economic growth and investment climate of Ibadan.
“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 is actively collaborating with government authorities to tackle the issue. Measures include strengthening community vigilance and revitalising local security systems.
“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.