Mokola, a bustling neighborhood in Ibadan North Local Government, Oyo State, has been described as a “Mini Nigeria” due to its multicultural and multilingual nature.
This unique characteristic is one of the major points of pride for Chief Mufutau Oluwafemi Abonde, Baale Mokola, who oversees the area and its surrounding regions, including parts of Sabo, Oremeji Coca-Cola, Ajibade Sobande, and Dandaru Road.
In a recent exclusive interview with Westlife Magazine ( a sister media outfit of WesternLifeNewsNG) , Baale Abonde shared insights into his leadership journey and the development strides he has achieved in Mokola.
“Mokola represents every tribe in Nigeria and even foreigners,” he said. “We have peace and harmony among all ethnic groups, and all our roads are tarred, ensuring smooth connectivity within the community.”
Chief Abonde revealed that he did not initially anticipate becoming the Baale of Mokola. As a title holder of Apesinola, his emergence as Baale was based on merit rather than lobbying.
“It was my CV, records, and goodwill that earned me the position,” he explained.
Before his tenure, Mokola was served by tribal Baales representing specific ethnic groups, including Ebira, Tapa, and Ilorin. However, his leadership brought about a unification, making him the overall Baale of Mokola, responsible for fostering unity and development across all tribes in the area.
Baale Abonde’s vision for Mokola revolves around development and community harmony. He recently installed chiefs to form a traditional council that collaborates on initiatives.
“One man cannot be an island..We need people to advise and work with us to develop the community,” he said.
Despite these efforts, Mokola faces challenges, particularly with indiscriminate waste disposal. The hilly terrain causes rainwater to carry refuse into drainages and roads, creating environmental issues.
The Baale therefore called for government support and law enforcement to tackle this problem effectively.
On security, he highlighted Mokola’s commercialized nature, with over 30 hotels, numerous bars, and entertainment centers. While these establishments boost the local economy, they also pose security risks.
“Their clients can sometimes create problems. Armed robbers and questionable characters can blend in,” he noted.
To address this, the Baale has collaborated with local vigilantes, Amotekun, and the police to enhance security, including a street-by-street network system.
Chief Abode expressed gratitude to the people of Mokola for their cooperation and urged them to continue fostering peace and unity.
“When there is peace, there will be progress. And with progress comes development,” he said, emphasizing the role of corporate organizations in supporting community growth.
He also affirmed his close relationship with the Olubadan of Ibadanland, describing frequent visits to the palace to strengthen ties and seek guidance.
As Mokola continues to thrive under Baale Abonde’s leadership, the community’s harmonious coexistence and development-focused initiatives make it a model for unity and progress in a multicultural society.
