The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has called on Yoruba people to stay vigilant as insecurity continues to spread across Nigeria, cautioning that the recent attacks in the northern and central regions could increasingly threaten the South-West.
According to a statement released on Sunday in Ibadan by his media aide, Adeola Oloko, the monarch made this appeal during the weekend celebration of Ode-Omu Day in Ode-Omu, Osun State.
The PUNCh reported that in recent weeks, northern Nigeria has witnessed a surge in terrorist and bandit attacks, leaving numerous people dead or kidnapped.
The latest incidents in Kwara and Kogi, states bordering the South-West, have amplified regional concerns and led governors in the zone to hold an emergency security meeting.
At the Ode-Omu event, Ladoja emphasized the need for heightened awareness. “Let me use this occasion to urge Yoruba people to be vigilant amid security challenges facing Nigeria,” he stated.
The Olubadan also lauded the strong communal spirit in Ode-Omu under the leadership of the Alaye of Ode-Omu, Oba Bolarinwa Oladipupo, highlighting their continued commitment to development projects.
“I want to pledge the readiness of Ibadan to always support Ode-Omu’s development. Next year, an illustrious son and Parakoyi of Ibadanland, Chief Tunde Afolabi, will be drafted to chair Ode-Omu Day,” he added.
Ode-Omu Day is held annually to assess the community’s progress and set development objectives for the coming year.
Earlier, former Minister of Police Affairs Jelili Adesiyan reminded attendees of the historical link between the two communities, noting that “Ibadan ancient warriors settled Ode-Omu in its present location in 1909.”
He also praised the royal fathers for their impressive turnout, particularly the Olubadan.
Other members of the Olubadan-in-Council in attendance included the Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola; the Osi Olubadan, Oba Abiodun Kola-Daisi; and the Ekerin Balogun of Ibadanland, High Chief Sharafadeen Alli, who also serves as Oyo South’s representative in the Senate.
Representing the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, was the Salu of Edunabon, Oba Kehinde Oladepo, while the Ogunsua of Modakeke, Oba Francis Adedoyin, attended alongside his chiefs.
