The Progressive Youth Forum has publicly condemned Mogaji Wale Ladoja over what it described as derogatory and unfounded remarks made against Nigeria’s Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, also known as "Penkelemesi."
Ladoja’s comments, aired on April 19 during the political program Bosenlo on Lagelu 96.7 FM, characterized Chief Adelabu as "stingy," claiming that the minister once refused to pay for a bottle of drink during their encounter. He further stated that anyone aspiring to lead Oyo State must have a record of generosity and philanthropy.
In a swift response, the Progressive Youth Forum, through its spokesperson Mr. Femi Adedoja, lambasted Ladoja’s remarks, calling them reckless, defamatory, and baseless. The group said Ladoja lacked the moral authority to smear the image of Chief Adelabu, a man whose political heritage dates back to pre-independence Nigeria.
The Forum praised Adelabu’s contributions to Oyo State’s development, noting his employment-generating ventures in hospitality and agriculture, and his involvement in community-building organizations like the Jericho Business Club and the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes. They also emphasized his philanthropic record and cultural significance, particularly his title as the Parakoyi of Ibadanland.
The group further questioned Ladoja's credibility, referencing his removal as head of his family compound by the late Olubadan of Ibadanland, and his alleged dismissal from the Odua Group's board due to land-related infractions. They likened his public outburst to "the proverbial madman at the market square, tearing at others to appear noble."
“The ranting of a palace jester deserves no serious response,” the Forum stated, “but we owe it to the public to set the record straight before lies are mistaken for truth.”
Concluding their statement, the Progressive Youth Forum urged Ladoja to retract his defamatory remarks or face potential legal action.