Olubadan to politicians: ‘Stop exploiting religion in politics’
By Adejayan Gbenga
The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has cautioned politicians against using religion as a tool to gain electoral advantage, urging Nigerians to move beyond divisive tendencies ahead of the 2027 elections.
Speaking on Friday at his Bodija residence in Ibadan, during the Eid al-Fitr celebrations, Oba Ladoja stressed that contemporary democratic practices no longer support the manipulation of religious sentiments for political gain.
According to him, candidates and electorates have their unique roles to play in the development of a nation, therefore, religion, and ethnicity should not influence elections.
“We have gone beyond using religion as a basis for politics. People from different backgrounds come together, play their roles and move on. Religion should not be a factor in our politics,” he said.
Addressing security concerns in the state, particularly incidents of kidnapping, the traditional ruler noted that while challenges persist, security agencies are making steady progress.
Citing a recent case along the Oluyole axis of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, where three suspects were arrested and two victims rescued, the monarch applauded security operatives, assuring them of the support of the traditional institution.
“The traditional institution is not sitting idle. We are sensitising our people and mobilising local vigilantes. Ibadan has strong traditional structures, and we are reviving them to maintain order,” he stated.
