The head of Baales in Ibadan land, Chief Bamitale Folorunso Durojaiye Ige, Baale of Olounde in Oluyole Local Government, has expressed strong confidence in the reign of the newly enthroned Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, describing him as the kind of leader the city needs at this critical time.
Speaking in an interview, Chief Ige said Ibadan stands to experience progress and rapid development under Oba Ladoja, given his vast experience as an educationist, politician, businessman, and entrepreneur.
“Ibadan needs Ladoja at this time. We have confidence that during his reign, there will be progress and development. He is an educated man, a seasoned politician, and a businessman who cannot subjugate his subjects but will rather ensure improvement in the lives of both indigenes and settlers in Ibadan,” the Baale stated.
Chief Ige described the Olubadan as a principled monarch who has reached the peak of his career in politics, having served as a Senator and Governor of Oyo State.
According to him, these qualities make Oba Ladoja a ruler who cannot be swayed by external influence or personal interests.
“Our hope in him is many, and we pray God will make them a reality. We are also happy that his reign coincides with the renewed agitation for Ibadan State. We believe Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja will champion the cause and help make it a reality,” he added.
Speaking on Ibadan statehood, the Baale reiterated the support of Ibadan traditional leaders for the creation of Ibadan State, stressing that the city is long overdue for such recognition.
“Ibadan is too big to remain under one state. Out of the three regional headquarters in the 1960s, only Ibadan is yet to get its own state, whereas Enugu and Kaduna have long been elevated. Ibadan State will bring development and greater recognition to our people,” Chief Ige said.
On Challenges in Oluyole, Chief Ige, who has served as Baale of Olounde for 15 years, also highlighted some of the challenges faced by communities in Oluyole Local Government, particularly security concerns arising from the activities of herdsmen, kidnappers, and bandits along the Ibadan–Ijebu-Ode road.
He recalled that lives and properties were lost in the past but commended the efforts of the Oyo State Governor, the local government, and security agencies for stemming the tide of violence and restoring relative peace in the area.
