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Tag: Ladoja

  • Ladoja seeks FG intervention on Ibadan ecological problems, visits SGF

    Ladoja seeks FG intervention on Ibadan ecological problems, visits SGF

     The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja has appealled to the Federal Government to help solve the ecological problems affecting the people of the ancient city. 

    The first class monarch made this plea on Thursday in Abuja when he visited the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Dr George Akume.

    In a statement signed by his Media Aide, Adeola Oloko, the Olubadan acknowledged the previous interventions of the FG and World Bank on Ogunpa channelisation programme. 

    The royal father however added that Ogunpa ecological problem gained more prominence because the areas affected are elitist areas stretching from Mokola, Ekotedo, Ogunpa, Oke Ado to Molete.

    He therefore requested the assistance of the FG to help solve the ecological problems threatening the down-trodden people living around Oranyan, Kudeti, Agbongbon area and some other parts of city that have not been in the spotlight due to no fault of theirs. 

    According to him, what the numerous people along this route encounter during the raining season is better imagined than told.

    Read Also: New year: Make good resolutions, Ladoja urges Ibadan residents, indigenes

    Responding, the Federal Government scribe, Dr Akume said he was not surprised that the Olubadan could come all the way from Ibadan to Abuja to bring the attention of the Federal Government to the plight of his people, adding that this is why Olubadan has won a wide perspective of affection.

    He promised that everything would be done by the Federal Government to assist the people of the affected areas.

    Oba Ladoja was accompanied by Senator Fatai Buhari (Oyo North) and Senator Sharafadeen Alli (Oyo South) amongst others.

  • New year: Make good resolutions, Ladoja urges Ibadan residents, indigenes

    New year: Make good resolutions, Ladoja urges Ibadan residents, indigenes

    The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja has urged both the indigenes and residents of Ibadan to make New Year resolutions that will promote peaceful co-existence, unity, socio economic rejuvenation, security of life and property, cultural values and monumental developments in all ramifications of life in Ibadanland 

    The New Year celebration message was sent to all indigenes and residents by the monarch while congratulating the people on seeing the end of year 2025 and happily entering year 2026 hale and hearty 

    In the New Year message as contained in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Chief Solomon Ayoade, the paramount ruler said, “I urge you all to be resolute on the progress and unity of Ibadanland so as to jointly realize the modern Ibadanland of our dream.

    “As for me, I have resolved to use the rest of my life to serve God and humanity as a good example for others to follow.”

    Oba Ladoja used the occasion to enjoin all Ibadan traditional title holders to key into his vision of moving Ibadan forward for the benefit of all especially in the areas of security, urban renewal, putting an end to land grabbing, resuscitation of moribund companies and preservation of Yoruba cultural heritage.

    He commended the security operatives in Ibadanland as well as Oyo State for their improved efforts in securing the life and property of the people before and during the celebration, urging them not to rest on their oars. 

  • Ladoja felicitates Christians on Christmas celebration 

    Ladoja felicitates Christians on Christmas celebration 

    The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, has congratulated Christians all over the world on the celebration of 2025 Christmas 

    The congratulatory message was contained in a statement issued and signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Solomon Ayoade

    The statement reads, “I join Christians globally to celebrate this year’s Christmas to show my appreciation to God for sparing my life to be enthroned as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland as well as endowing me with wisdom, sound health and making my reign peaceful.

    “I charge Christians to emulate Jesus Christ who is the Prince of Peace, who taught us to love one another irrespective of the differences in tribe, religion, colour and language as He was born to save the entire mankind.

    “Nigeria as a nation is facing several challenges ranging from insecurity, economic hardship, disunity, unemployment to insufficient infrastructural amenities which should make us to engage in fervent prayers to heal our land and leaders.”

    The monarch called on all security operatives to intensify their efforts in ensuring the security of life and property; particularly during this yelitude festival.

    The first class traditional ruler enjoined us all to celebrate the Christmas with modesty by eating and drinking responsibly. 

  • Olanipekun urges Ladoja to lead unity of traditional rulers in southwest

    Olanipekun urges Ladoja to lead unity of traditional rulers in southwest

    A Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Wole Olanipekun, has urged the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, to bring his wealth of experience as seasoned administrator and foremost traditional ruler to bear in uniting traditional rulers in the Southwest region.

    Advocating for unified identity among the traditional rulers in the region, the legal luminary said traditional rulers can only advance the course of the region with unity of purpose.

    Olanipekun made the plea during a courtsey visit to the Olubadan at his Oke-Aremo palace, Ibadan on Tuesday. 

    He urged the monarch to bring his wealth of experience as former governor, senator and entrepreneur to bear in the interest of the traditional institution in the region.

    He described Oba Ladoja as a leading figure among the traditional rulers in Yorubaland, noting the history of the ancient town and the role that it played in wading off the invasion of the Fulani Jihadist.

    He said, “It is of note how Ibadan warlords fought gallantly to defend the territorial integrity of the Yorubaland during Kiriji war, Ijaiye war, Jalumi to mention but few.

    “With all these in minds, people are looking unto Ladoja as a foremost tradional rulers to bring his wealth of experience to bear in giving the traditional rulers a uniform identity.

    “Oba Ladoja has seen it all as a governor and senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. His impeachment case and the Supreme Court ruling that invalidate the decision of the House of Assembly has become a reference case.

    “Lawyers always make reference to this case whenever such matter arises either at the lower or upper courts.

    “Many governors have been saved through the case instituted by Ladoja from any form of unconstitutional impeachment from office.

    “As a traditional ruler that have weathered many storms, all eyes are on you.

    “We must ensure that unnecessary cracks are not created on the walls of the traditional rulers in Yorubaland so that the onslaught of the lizard can be checkmate.”

    In his response, Ladoja described Olanipekun as a foremost lawyer who is being governed by the fear of God.

    Ladoja while acknowledging the role of Olanipekun in the promotion of the legal profession stressed the need for timely dispensation of justice.

    He said, “There is need for speedy dispensation of cases at the various courts. Litigants are being discouraged with the delayed being experience in the dispensation of justice.

    “The legal luminary also stressed the need for the movement of experienced lawyers from the Bar to the Bench.”

  • Ibadan Mogajis, CCII, monarchs, others warn Alaafin against disrespecting Ladoja

    Ibadan Mogajis, CCII, monarchs, others warn Alaafin against disrespecting Ladoja

    The Mogajis in Ibadanland, the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Monarchs, Baales, the Ibadan Compound Peace Initiative (ICPI), and other prominent sons and daughters of the ancient city have cautioned the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade, against taking Ibadan for granted.

    The stakeholders stressed that the people of Ibadan would not accept any action capable of diminishing the status of the Olubadan stool or the Ibadan traditional system.

    The position followed concerns that arose over a sitting arrangement involving the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, and a representative of the Alaafin of Oyo at a recent security meeting held in Ibadan.

    In a statement signed by the President of Ibadan Mogajis, Mogaji Asimiyu Ariori, and the Coordinator of the Ibadan Compound Peace Initiative, Mogaji Dr Nurudeen Akinade, the stakeholders maintained that Ibadanland should not be regarded as subordinate to Oyo or any other town in Yorubaland.

    The statement noted that Ibadan has consistently upheld its dignity and standing within Yoruba tradition and would continue to do so.

    The group called on leaders across Yorubaland to engage the Alaafin of Oyo on the matter, adding that the peaceful disposition of the people of Ibadan should not be misinterpreted.

    They also stated that the issue surrounding the chairmanship of the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs had been settled and should not be reopened.

    The stakeholders further highlighted the background of Olubadan as a former senator, governor, and accomplished businessman, stressing that the stool should continue to be accorded due respect.

    “Ibadan will never be a slave to anyone. Ibadanland has always maintained its dignity in Yoruba tradition, and this will not change.”

    The statement highlighted Olubadan’s distinguished background as a former Senator, Governor, and successful businessman, emphasizing that he will not be subjected to any form of ridicule.

    “Ibadan mesi, won o go” (Ibadan has spoken, we won’t go back), the statement concluded, indicating the resolve of the people of Ibadan to defend their dignity and tradition.

    “Ibadanland deserves respect, and any attempt to undermine its traditional institutions will be met with resistance. The people of Ibadan are united in their determination to protect their heritage.”

  • Ladoja: I want to manage challenges

    Ladoja: I want to manage challenges

    The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has said his area of jurisdiction does not extend beyond the 11 local government areas of Oyo State, adding that about four million people live there, as stated in Oyo State Chiefs Law and Ibadan Chieftaincy Declaration.

    Speaking yesterday at the coronation luncheon organised to celebrate his ascension to the throne by Ibadan Foundation, at Kakanfo Hotel, Ibadan, Oba Ladoja said he had a lot of work in his hands to bother himself about what he was not.

    The first-class monarch told an impressive crowd of Ibadan heavy weights, including Asiwaju Bode Amao, Chief Bayo Oyero, Otun Balogun, Oba Kola Adegbola and the Iyalode group that he had a clear-cut idea of how he wanted to manage the challenges facing Ibadan.

    He said: “When people were protesting about the Circular Road, my house was their first port of call. And I briefed Governor Seyi Makinde on it. We are confronted with land grabbing challenges. That was why we set up an anti-land grabbing committee. We are awaiting their report.

    Read Also: Tinubu unveils new security, economic blueprint to harness Nigeria’s marine wealth

    “But I want to hint you that land reform is underway. When we notice security breaches anywhere within our area of jurisdiction we know who to call. We know who to hold responsible. We set up Olubadan Economic and Investment Committee to recommend to us how to revive so many industries that have been closed down for years in Ibadan.

    “We want them to re-open for business to generate employment opportunities for our able-bodied youths.

    “We have inherited legacies of bravery, nobility, hard work, enviable record from our forefathers. This doesn’t mean we should resign ourselves to fate.”

    Oba Ladoja said: ‘’When the Ooni of Ife conferred the chieftaincy title of Okanlomo Odua on our illustrious son, Dotun Sanusi, many monarchs, not just from Ibadan, but from Oyo State attended in solidarity. We didn’t know that one of our illustrious daughters, Chief Latinwo, was going to be installed Yeye Bobagunwa Oodua.’’

  • Ladoja urges FG to reopen all land borders

    Ladoja urges FG to reopen all land borders

    The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has appealed to the Federal Government to open all land borders in Nigeria to ease movement of persons and goods across the sub-region as provided under the ECOWAS trade liberation scheme.

    Ladoja made the appeal when the outgoing Controller of Customs, Oyo/Osun Area Command, Compt. Gambo Aliyu, paid him a farewell visit at his Bodija residence in Ibadan on Sunday.

    He recalled that the federal government, during the tenure of late President Muhammadu Buhari, had closed land borders in 2019, but later reopened some major ones, including Seme and Idiroko, in Lagos and Ogun States respectively.

    The royal father said that following the removal of fuel subsidy by the federal government on May 29, 2023, there was no longer reason for the continued closure of the remaining land borders.

    While commending the leadership of the Nigeria Customs Service for its anti-smuggling activities, the Olubadan urged the service to rise up to the challenge of entry of illegal arms and ammunition into the country.

    Ladoja said that the country’s borders, seaports and airports needed to be policed properly to curb entry of illegal arms and ammunition, drugs, substandard products and other prohibited items.

    He commended Aliyu, the 37th Customs Area Controller, Oyo/Osun Area Command, for his diligence and dedication to duty during his short stay in the command and wished him the best in his future endeavours.

    Earlier, Aliyu had thanked the Olubadan and the traditional institution in the state for their support to him and the command during his tenure and pleaded that same should be extended to his successor.

    (NAN)

  • Ibadan poised for rapid economic growth, says Olubadan Ladoja

    Ibadan poised for rapid economic growth, says Olubadan Ladoja

    The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has expressed confidence that Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, will soon experience swift and positive economic transformation.

    He gave the assurance while receiving members of the Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) Association of Oyo State during a courtesy visit to the Oke Aremo Palace.

    The monarch, a seasoned businessman, said manufacturing remains more profitable than distribution, noting that increased local production would boost wealth creation and expand job opportunities.

    To tackle long-standing challenges facing manufacturing companies in Ibadan, such as inadequate electricity, poor water supply, and bad roads, Oba Ladoja revealed that the Olubadan-in-Council has established an Economic and Investment Committee to proffer practical solutions.

    Read Also: Ladoja elevates five High Chiefs, receives PFN delegation

    Earlier, the founder of the FMCG Oyo State branch, Mrs. Apeke Adeogun, congratulated the monarch on his ascension to the throne and prayed for his continued health and long life.

    She assured him that the association is committed to contributing to the economic progress of Ibadanland.

    In a related visit, the management of JAIZ Bank Plc, Ibadan branch, also paid homage to Olubadan.

    The Group Head, Mr. Ismail Arowolo, pledged the bank’s support for the city’s rapid economic development and for initiatives that empower both corporate organisations and individuals.

  • Royalty is now for service, not glamour – Ladoja

    Royalty is now for service, not glamour – Ladoja

    The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has submitted that royalty is no longer for glamour but a call to service.

    He said chieftaincy should no longer be seen as an avenue to make money or oppress the less privileged in society, but an opportunity to impact the lives of the people over whom they rule.

    Oba Ladoja gave the charge on Friday during the elevation ceremony of some senior chiefs on the Otun Olubadan line, held at the Olubadan palace, Oke-Aremo, Ibadan.

    Ladoja said, “Now, royalty is about what you have to offer your community. It is about ministering to the needs of the indigent in our midst. It is about ameliorating the condition of our people.”

    The Olubadan noted that the newly promoted chiefs are men of means and influence with the capacity to positively touch lives.

    Those promoted include veteran journalist, Oloye Lekan Alabi, the new Abese Olubadan, Senior Chief Ismaila Akinade Fijabi, Maye Olubadan, and Senior Chief Saka Fola Lapade, Ekefa Olubadan.

    Former Senate Leader, Teslim Folarin, is the new Agbaakin Olubadan, while Senior Chief Muibi Ademola Adewuyi is Aare Alaasa Olubadan. Senior Chief Raufu Delesolu and Senior Chief Hammed Lanihun are the new Ikolaba Olubadan and Asaaju Olubadan, respectively.

    The elevation ceremony had in attendance dignitaries from different walks of life.

  • Ladoja elevates five High Chiefs, receives PFN delegation

    Ladoja elevates five High Chiefs, receives PFN delegation

    The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja on Friday elevated five High Chiefs on the Otun Olubadan line.

    The monarch called on all religious adherents globally to ensure peaceful co -existence irrespective of religious affiliations. 

    Oba Ladoja also advised the President Bola Tinubu and world political leaders to cooperate and allow peaceful co -existence to be their cardinal principles. 

    The monarch spoke when he received the President of Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN ), Bishop Francis Wale Oke who paid him a courtesy visit paid at the Oke Aremo, Palace Ibadan on Friday prior to the elevation ceremony of some high chiefs of the ancient city

    Speaking on the alleged Christian genocide in the country, the monarch  admitted that Nigeria is facing some security challenges.

    He said the insecurity as observed in many countries of the world affects all religious sects which should “neither be allowed to divide us nor be allowed to result to war that may lead to destruction of lives and properties.”

    He urged the PFN President to appeal to other Christian leaders, worldwide to preach peace and be brothers and sisters keepers.

    He called on President Tinubu to put more effort in ensuring that insecurity is reduced if not totally eradicated 

    Oke prayed God to give the monarch longevity of life in the service of God and humanity.

    He advocated an end to the reported killings, kidnapping and other vices in the country, noting Christians and Muslims are at the receiving ends of the heinous act.

    According to him, the killings in some part of the country affect all religions.

    The elevation of the High Chiefs done in accordance with the Ibadan Chieftaincy law was necessitated by the vacuum created on the line by the installation of Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland recently. 

    The affected High Chiefs were elevated to their next positions.

     Those elevated include: Oba Eddy Oyewole, who has assumed the position of Otun Olubadan; Oba Kola Daisi, (Osi Olubadan); Oba Hamidu Ajibade(Asipa Olubadan); Oba Murtala Adebayo Akande (Ekerin Olubadan) and High Chief Kola Babalola ( Ekaarun Olubadan)

    Oba Ladoja was formerly Otun Olubadan from the civil line otherwise known as Otun Olubadan line before his emergence as Olubadan.

    The newly elevated High Chiefs pledged their allegiance to Oba Ladoja as well their commitment to the development of Ibadanland.