- Ibadan’s Main Problem Isn’t Kidnapping, It’s Land Grabbing – Olubadan
- Moves Against Land Grabbers, Tasks Baales on Enforcement
- He also revealed that local security agencies and vigilante groups have been mobilised to respond swiftly to any reported cases
The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja, has identified land grabbing as the most pressing challenge facing residents and indigenes of the ancient city, warning that the trend is hindering development.
Eko Hot Blog reports that Ladoja, a former governor of Oyo State, made this known while speaking with journalists at his Bodija residence in Ibadan during the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations.
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According to him, land grabbing has become a long-standing issue in Ibadan, creating disputes and discouraging investment in the city.
He noted that many property buyers now face situations where multiple individuals lay claim to the same land, leading to confusion and legal battles.
“The major problem we have in Ibadan is not kidnapping; it is land grabbing,” the monarch said, stressing that the situation is affecting both social stability and economic growth.
To address the challenge, Ladoja said he has directed Baales (village heads) and other traditional land custodians to take full responsibility for lands within their domains and ensure that such illegal practices are not tolerated.
He also revealed that local security agencies and vigilante groups have been mobilised to respond swiftly to any reported cases.
On insecurity, the Olubadan acknowledged recent concerns, including cases of kidnapping, but maintained that the situation is under control.
He dismissed claims linking the incidents to Fulani herdsmen, describing the perpetrators as criminals motivated by extortion.
He added that arrests have already been made in some cases, including in Oluyole Local Government Area, demonstrating that both traditional authorities and security agencies are actively tackling the problem.
Ladoja reassured residents that efforts are ongoing to maintain peace and protect lives and property, urging continued cooperation between the community, traditional institutions, and security operatives.
