The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has said the antecedents and popularity of politicians seeking elective positions in Oyo State will determine their success in the 2027 elections, not his personal influence.
Ladoja, a former governor of the state, stated this while addressing journalists at his Bodija residence in Ibadan on Wednesday.
The monarch said many governorship aspirants and candidates in the state were using his name in their political campaigns.
According to him, all politicians in the state are his children, adding that there was nothing wrong with anyone associating with him politically.
“Let them use my name to promote themselves if it is meaningful to them. But the populace will decide who rules them at the end of the day, not my name,” he said.
The traditional ruler stressed that voters would ultimately judge aspirants based on their records, popularity and performance.
Speaking on the recent abduction of 39 students and teachers in communities within Oriire Local Government Area, Ladoja described the incident as unfortunate.
He, however, expressed confidence in the efforts being made by the government and security agencies to secure the victims’ release.
“Government and security agencies are trying their best. It’s just that they won’t tell you what they’re doing to secure the release of those abducted for security purposes,” he stated.
Ladoja also condemned all forms of land grabbing in Ibadanland, saying such activities were unacceptable in the ancient city.
Olugbenga Ige is a journalist at Punch Newspapers with over nine years of professional reporting experience. He is known for his sharp eye for compelling stories and a strong instinct for identifying newsworthy developments. Over the years, Olugbenga has built a reputation for turning leads into clear, engaging, and well-structured reports that resonate with readers. His work reflects deep newsroom experience, editorial judgment, and a commitment to accurate, impactful journalism.
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