WorldStage– The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has urged communities across Yorubaland to maintain heightened vigilance as growing insecurity in the northern and central regions moves closer to South-West borders.
The monarch delivered the warning at during the Ode-Omu Day celebration in Osun State.
His remarks were shared in a statement issued on Sunday by his media aide, Adeola Oloko.
Oba Ladoja expressed concern over the recent wave of terrorist and bandit operations in Kwara and Kogi, two states that directly border the South-West.
The attacks, which have led to rising casualties and kidnappings, have already prompted governors in the region to hold an emergency security session.
Speaking at the event, the Olubadan stressed that the situation requires collective alertness from residents, noting that the South-West cannot afford complacency as threats creep closer.
He praised the commitment of the Ode-Omu community, led by the Alaye of Ode-Omu, Oba Bolarinwa Oladipupo, applauding their consistent investment in local development projects.
According to him, their model of communal cooperation remains a benchmark for other towns.
Reaffirming Ibadan’s long-standing relationship with the town, the monarch pledged continued support for its developmental agenda.
He announced that Chief Tunde Afolabi, the Parakoyi of Ibadanland, would chair next year’s edition of the annual Ode-Omu Day celebration.
The cultural event, held every year, serves as a moment for the community to review its achievements and set future goals.
Former Minister of Police Affairs, Jelili Adesiyan, speaking on the town’s history, reminded participants that Ode-Omu’s present settlement was established by Ibadan warriors in 1909.
A strong delegation of the Olubadan-in-Council accompanied the monarch, including the Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola; Osi Olubadan, Oba Abiodun Kola-Daisi; and the Ekerin Balogun, High Chief Sharafadeen Alli, who represents Oyo South in the Senate.
Also present were key traditional rulers, including the representative of the Ooni of Ife, the Salu of Edunabon, Oba Kehinde Oladepo and the Ogunsua of Modakeke,Oba Joseph Olubiyi Toriola who attended with his chiefs.
