The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has described land grabbing as a major problem and a threat to the development of Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.
He said the situation, if not addressed on time, could destroy investment in the city.
Oba Ladoja spoke on Friday at his private residence in Bodija, Ibadan, on the occasion of Eid al-Fitr.
“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.
The monarch assured residents that the traditional institution, in collaboration with government authorities, was 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,” he added.
The monarch cautioned politicians, irrespective of their political affiliation, against exploiting religion as a tool for electoral advantage.
He emphasised that the country must move beyond divisive tendencies as another election cycle approaches.
Oba Ladoja said contemporary democratic realities no longer support the manipulation of religious sentiments for political gain.
“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.
The traditional ruler also addressed concerns over insecurity in parts of the state, particularly incidents of kidnapping, noting that while such challenges persist, security agencies are making steady progress in tackling them.
“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 addressed as they arise. Some of these incidents are not even organised kidnappings,” he explained.
Ladoja cited a recent incident along the Oluyole axis of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, disclosing that suspects had been apprehended and victims rescued.
“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.
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.
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