The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has urged Yoruba communities across the South-West to heighten their vigilance as insecurity intensifies across northern and central Nigeria, warning that recent attacks pose an increasing danger to the region.
The warning was contained in a statement issued on Sunday by his media aide, Adeola Oloko, following the monarch’s address at the weekend celebration of Ode-Omu Day in Osun State.
Nigeria has in recent weeks witnessed a spike in terrorist and bandit attacks, particularly in northern states where killings, mass abductions and violent raids have surged. Fresh incidents in Kwara and Kogi States, both of which share borders with the South-West, have fuelled heightened concern among residents and prompted governors in the region to convene an emergency security meeting.
Addressing attendees at Ode-Omu, Oba Ladoja said the situation required the Yoruba people to be proactive and alert.
“Let me use this occasion to urge Yoruba people to be vigilant amid security challenges facing Nigeria,” he said.
The monarch praised the unity and development efforts displayed by the people of Ode-Omu under the leadership of the Alaye of Ode-Omu, Oba Bolarinwa Oladipupo. He commended their collective investment in community projects and pledged continued support from Ibadan.
“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,” Ladoja added.
Earlier at the event, former Minister of Police Affairs, Jelili Adesiyan, reminded attendees of the longstanding connections between the two communities, noting that Ibadan warriors resettled Ode-Omu in its present location in 1909.
He commended the royal fathers for attending in large numbers, particularly the Olubadan.
Prominent traditional rulers present 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 the senator representing Oyo South.
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, attended with his chiefs.
Ode-Omu Day is held annually to review community progress, celebrate cultural identity and outline development priorities for the coming year.
