By Ayomide Otitoju
The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has called on Nigerians to unite in the fight against terrorism and to address the grievances of affected communities, following a recent threat of military action by US President Donald Trump.
Oba Ladoja made the remarks over the weekend while receiving the President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Bishop Francis Wale Oke, at the Olubadan Palace in Oke Aremo, Ibadan.
According to a statement by the monarch’s media aide, Adeola Oloko, Oba Ladoja noted that Nigeria has grappled with terrorism since the end of former President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration in 2014. He highlighted the toll on human life and property, the displacement of families—especially women and children—and widespread kidnappings.
“Successive administrations have spent trillions to fight insecurity. Despite these efforts, people remain aggrieved and sometimes resort to self-help,” Oba Ladoja said. “Terrorists don’t distinguish between Muslims and Christians; they see everyone as prey. We must work together to address this scourge and placate those affected.”
The monarch emphasized the peaceful coexistence of different religious communities in South-Western Nigeria and expressed concern over the lack of similar harmony in other parts of the country. He also cautioned against external military intervention, advocating instead for collaboration.
Bishop Oke congratulated Oba Ladoja on becoming the 44th Olubadan, praying for wisdom, knowledge, and understanding to guide his leadership.
