The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has called for unity among Nigerians in the fight against terrorism, urging citizens to rise above divisions and work together to end insecurity that has plagued the nation for years.
The monarch made the appeal at his palace in Oke Aremo, Ibadan, while receiving the President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, Bishop Francis Wale Oke. He expressed concern over the long-standing wave of violence that began more than a decade ago, lamenting the destruction of lives and property that has left families displaced and communities in fear.
According to Oba Ladoja, successive governments from those of Goodluck Jonathan and Muhammadu Buhari to the present administration of Bola Tinubu have poured vast resources into combating insecurity, yet terrorism persists. He emphasized that extremists make no distinction between Muslims and Christians, as all Nigerians have suffered the consequences of their attacks.
The Olubadan urged Bishop Oke to continue guiding Christians toward peace and patience despite the current hardship, assuring that the country’s struggles will not last forever. He also commended the South-West for maintaining harmony among diverse religious groups and encouraged other parts of the country to embrace tolerance and mutual understanding.
While acknowledging international attention on Nigeria’s security challenges, Oba Ladoja warned against foreign interference in domestic matters. He noted that any external support should come only through cooperation and respect for Nigeria’s sovereignty.
In his response, Bishop Wale Oke congratulated Oba Ladoja on his ascension as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland. He prayed for divine wisdom and guidance for the monarch as he leads his people in peace and service to God.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs has urged US President Donald Trump to retract a recent comment in which he described Nigeria as a “disgraced country.” The Council said such remarks could deepen divisions and threaten stability.
Speaking after a high-level meeting in Abuja, NSCIA Secretary-General Professor Ishaq Oloyede accused some unpatriotic Nigerians of spreading false narratives abroad that paint the nation as a place of religious persecution. He emphasized that insecurity in Nigeria affects everyone Muslims and Christians alike and is driven not by religion, but by broader social and economic issues, including poverty, poor governance, and the easy circulation of weapons.
