The Olubadan of Ibadan, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja on Tuesday formally inaugurated the Ibadan Community Guard, a grassroots security outfit.
The security outfit was established to complement existing security agencies and strengthen surveillance across the eleven Local Government Areas of Ibadanland.
The inauguration, held at the Olubadan Palace, Oke Aremo, is said to be indicative of a renewed push toward community-driven security as concerns over safety persist in parts of the ancient city.
Addressing dignitaries and stakeholders at the ceremony, the monarch underscored the need for collective responsibility in safeguarding lives and property.
He explained that the newly formed Community Guard would be strategically deployed across all local government areas to support conventional security agencies through intelligence gathering and rapid local response.
“The safety of our people cannot be left to government alone. It is a duty we must all share.
This initiative is a step toward strengthening our internal security structure and ensuring that our communities remain peaceful and secure,” the Olubadan said.
He noted that the initiative was carefully designed to work in synergy with law enforcement bodies, rather than replace them, adding that effective collaboration would be key to its success.
In a related development, the monarch also unveiled “Gaari Ibadan,” an economic and food security programme aimed at promoting local production and boosting economic resilience within the metropolis.
The initiative, driven by the Ibadan Economic Investment and Business Development Desk in collaboration with the Ibadan Food Security Initiative, is expected to enhance food sustainability while creating opportunities for local farmers, processors, and traders.
Speaking on the programme, Oba Ladoja emphasized the importance of economic empowerment alongside security, noting that both are critical to sustainable development.
“A secure society must also be economically viable. With ‘Gaari Ibadan,’ we are encouraging our people to look inward, support local production, and build a stronger, self-sustaining economy,” he added.
The ceremony attracted prominent personalities from across the state, including members of the Olubadan-in-Council, former Minister of Industry and Iyalaje Iyalode of Ibadanland, Onikepo Akande, and Senator Sharafadeen Alli.
Also in attendance were former Commissioner of Police, Fatai Owoseni, renowned entrepreneur Jubril Dotun Sanusi, and the President-General of the Central Council of Ibadanland, Ajeniyi Ajewole, among other distinguished guests.