The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has issued a strong admonition to Yoruba people across Nigeria to remain vigilant in the face of persistent security challenges plaguing the nation. This appeal came during his address at the Ode-Omu Day celebration in Ode-Omu, Osun State, over the weekend, where the monarch emphasized the need for community alertness to counter ongoing threats.
In a statement released by his Media Aide, Adeola Oloko, in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, on Sunday, Oba Ladoja highlighted the gravity of Nigeria’s insecurity situation. The annual Ode-Omu Day serves as a platform for the community to review development progress and plan for the future under the leadership of the Alaye of Ode-Omu, Oba Bolarinwa Oladipupo.
Oba Ladoja commended the host community’s exemplary spirit of development, praising their collective efforts in advancing local initiatives. He specifically urged, “Let me use this occasion to urge Yoruba people to be vigilant amid security challenges facing Nigeria.”
This direct call underscores his concern over the widespread nature of threats that demand proactive responses from all citizens.Further demonstrating solidarity, the Olubadan pledged continued support from Ibadan for Ode-Omu’s growth. “I want to pledge the readiness of Ibadan to always support Ode-Omu’s development. That next year, an illustrious son and Parakoyi of Ibadanland, Chief Tunde Afolabi would be drafted to chair Ode-Omu Day,” he promised.
The event drew significant royal attendance, including key members of the Olubadan-in-Council such as the Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola; Osi Olubadan, Oba Abiodun Kola-Daisi; and High Chief Sharafadeen Alli, the Ekerin Balogun of Ibadanland and Senator representing Oyo South in the National Assembly. The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, was represented by the Salu of Edunabon, Oba Kehinde Oladepo, while the Ogunsua of Modakeke, Oba Francis Adedoyin, and his chiefs also joined the gathering.
Earlier in the proceedings, former Minister of Police Affairs, Jelili Adesiyan, addressed the large crowd, recounting the historical settlement of Ode-Omu by Ibadan warriors in 1909. He expressed appreciation for the robust participation of royal fathers, particularly the Olubadan, which elevated the occasion’s significance.
This convergence of traditional leaders signals a unified front in addressing both cultural heritage and contemporary security imperatives.
