The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Lekan Rasidi Ladoja, has made it clear that the antecedents and popularity of politicians aspiring to contest the 2027 Oyo State governorship election will determine their victory, not the mere invocation of his name.
Speaking with journalists at his Bodija residence after leading prayers for Eid-el-Kabir, Oba Ladoja noted that many aspirants had been campaigning using his name.
However, he stressed that the final choice rests with the people.
“Let them use my name to promote themselves if it is meaningful to them. But at the end of the day, it is the people who will decide who rules them, not my name,” he said, describing all politicians in the state as his children.
The monarch also expressed deep concern over the abduction of 39 pupils and teachers in communities in Oriire Local Government Area.
He assured that security agencies and government officials were working behind the scenes to secure their release.
“Government and security agencies are doing their best. It’s just that they cannot reveal their operations for security reasons,” Oba Ladoja added.
On the issue of land disputes, the Olubadan warned that land grabbing in Ibadanland will no longer be tolerated. He urged residents to respect traditional laws and desist from illegal acquisition of land.
