…FN calls for end to killings and kidnapping
The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, on Friday elevated five High Chiefs on the Otun Olubadan line to their next traditional positions, in accordance with the Ibadan Chieftaincy Law.
The newly promoted chiefs are Oba Eddy Oyewole, who now assumes the position of Otun Olubadan; Oba Kola Daisi, the new Osi Olubadan; Oba Hamidu Ajibade, now Asipa Olubadan; Oba Murtala Adebayo Akande, the new Ekerin Olubadan; and High Chief Kola Babalola, who moves up as Ekaarun Olubadan.
The brief but dignified ceremony took place at the Olubadan’s Palace, Oke-Aremo, Ibadan, and drew a crowd of traditional rulers, community leaders, political figures, and religious leaders, including the President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Bishop Francis Wale Oke.
The elevation follows Oba Ladoja’s own installation as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland. Before ascending the throne, the monarch was the Otun Olubadan from the civil, or Otun Olubadan, line.
In their individual remarks, the newly elevated High Chiefs expressed loyalty to the Olubadan and reaffirmed their commitment to the peace, progress, and unity of Ibadanland. They described their elevation as both an honour and a call to greater service.
Speaking at the occasion, Bishop Wale Oke urged both government and citizens to intensify efforts toward ending killings, kidnapping, and other forms of violence plaguing the nation.
“The killings and kidnappings we hear about daily do not discriminate between religion or tribe,” he said. “Both Christians and Muslims are victims, and it is high time we all united against this evil. The government must take stronger steps to stop this menace that has claimed too many innocent lives.”