The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has warned politicians across party lines against using religion as a strategy to gain electoral support, stressing the need for unity as Nigeria approaches another election season.
Ladoja gave the caution on Friday while speaking with journalists at his private residence in Bodija, Ibadan, during the Eid al-Fitr celebration. He noted that the country must rise above divisive tendencies, adding that modern democratic practices no longer accommodate the exploitation of religious sentiments for political purposes.
“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 Oyo State, the monarch acknowledged ongoing incidents such as kidnapping but expressed confidence in the efforts of security agencies, saying they are making consistent progress in addressing the challenges.
“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.
He referenced a recent case along the Oluyole axis of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, revealing that arrests had been made 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”, he added.
Despite the security concerns, Ladoja identified land grabbing as a more serious threat to Ibadan’s development, warning that it could discourage investment and hinder economic 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 traditional authorities are actively working with the government to address the issue, including boosting community awareness and strengthening 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.