Jelili Gbadamosi
The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, has appealed to parties involved in the recent crisis in the Ojoo area of Akinyele Local Government Area of Oyo State to embrace peace and avoid actions capable of escalating the situation.
The monarch made the appeal in a statement issued on Wednesday by his media aide, Adeola Oloko.
Oba Ladoja described the peaceful coexistence of the various ethnic groups in Ibadan as a collective responsibility that must be protected and sustained.
He urged residents, regardless of their ethnic, religious or cultural backgrounds, to continue to see one another as members of one family.
“Regardless of where we come from, we should continue to see ourselves as brothers and sisters,” the monarch said.
While acknowledging that disagreements are inevitable in human relationships, the traditional ruler cautioned against allowing differences to degenerate into violence, especially in view of the security challenges confronting the country.
According to him, Ibadan has over the years remained home to people from different parts of Nigeria, irrespective of their ethnic, religious or ideological affiliations, and should continue to uphold its long-standing tradition of tolerance and peaceful coexistence.
The Olubadan specifically called on those involved in the Ojoo crisis to sheathe their swords and allow peace to prevail in the interest of the community and Oyo State.
He also commended security agencies, particularly the police, for their swift intervention in containing the disturbance and preventing a further breakdown of law and order.
The police have since confirmed that the situation is under control, while security operatives continue to monitor the area to prevent any resurgence of violence.
