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From Taiwo Oluwadare, Ibadan
The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has cautioned politicians and stakeholders against using religion as a tool for political mobilisation, declaring that the nation must rise above divisive tendencies as it approaches another election cycle.
Speaking during an interview at his Bodija residence in Ibadan on the occasion of the Eid-el-Fitri celebration, the monarch stressed that modern democratic systems have evolved beyond exploiting religious sentiments for political gain.
According to him, “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 also addressed rising concerns over insecurity, particularly recent kidnapping incidents in parts of Oyo State, noting that while such challenges exist, they are being effectively tackled.
He explained that many of the reported kidnapping cases were not necessarily acts of organised terrorism but criminal attempts to extort money from unsuspecting victims.
“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 said.
Oba Ladoja cited the recent incident along the Oluyole axis of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, revealing that security agencies had made arrests and rescued victims.
“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.
The traditional ruler, however, identified land grabbing as a more critical threat to the socio-economic development of Ibadan, warning that the menace could discourage 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.
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He assured residents that the traditional institution, in collaboration with the government, is actively addressing the challenge while also strengthening local security networks through vigilante groups and community 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, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has urged Muslims to sustain the virtues of humility, kindness, and forgiveness cultivated during the Ramadan period.
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 period 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 witness peace, stability, and development, attributing the progress to collective efforts and support for the administration.
He conveyed the governor’s appreciation to residents for their loyalty and cooperation, urging them to sustain their support for the government to consolidate on its achievements.
Lawal further called on 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 progress of Nigeria.
Dignitaries at the event included top government officials, political leaders, and clerics, who joined thousands of Muslim faithful in marking the end of Ramadan in an atmosphere of devotion and thanksgiving.
