The Olubadan-elect, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has called on compound heads and community leaders to work towards restoring Ibadan’s ancient heritage through urban renewal and rehabilitation of family houses across the city.
Oba Ladoja made the call at the weekend while receiving hundreds of Ibadan Mogajis (family heads) who paid him a congratulatory visit at his residence on Ondo Street, Bodija, following his emergence as the next Olubadan of Ibadanland.
The monarch-in-waiting noted that a significant number of Mogajis were financially capable of initiating developmental projects in their ancestral homes, but many had abandoned them for more affluent areas such as Bodija, Oluyole, Iyaganku, Jericho, Akobo, or even outside Nigeria, where living conditions are relatively better.
He lamented that some compound leaders had not convened family meetings for a long time after receiving chieftaincy titles, stressing that being a Mogaji or chief in Ibadan goes beyond a ceremonial title but entails responsibility.
“We are looking at a situation where Mogajis and chiefs would not abandon their ancestral homes,” Oba Ladoja said. “By so doing, you can positively impact the younger generation looking for mentorship. You lived in this same society and have become what God wants you to be. Please, let’s encourage the people at the grassroots by staying with them and sharing with them.”
He argued that if community leaders renovated their dilapidated family houses and occasionally resided in them, cases of drug abuse and other social vices in those areas would reduce significantly.
Citing his personal example, the Olubadan-designate explained that he had renovated his family house at Isale Osi, where he plans to visit from time to time as Olubadan. He, however, praised the efforts of some Mogajis already assisting their communities by providing scholarships for indigent students and promoting genuine grassroots development.
Oba Ladoja further urged the family heads and chiefs to rally behind his vision of restoring Ibadan’s economic fortunes, pledging to work hand in hand with them to reposition the city.
Earlier, the leader of the Ibadan Mogajis, Chief Asimiyu Ariori, congratulated Oba Ladoja on his ascension and pledged the full support of the compound heads. He lauded the monarch’s foresight and prayed for long life and a successful reign over Ibadanland.
