Monarch Stresses Collective Responsibility for Global Peace
The 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty Oba (Senator) Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja (Arusa I), has made a passionate appeal for worldwide peaceful coexistence among all religious adherents. The paramount ruler delivered this significant message during the courtesy visit of Bishop Francis Wale Oke, President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), to his palace at Oke Aremo, Ibadan, on Friday.
The monarch emphasized that maintaining global peace should be a shared responsibility among all religious followers, regardless of their spiritual affiliations. He specifically called upon presidents and world leaders to make peaceful coexistence their fundamental governing principle through enhanced cooperation and mutual understanding.
Addressing Nigeria's Security Situation
Regarding the sensitive issue of alleged Christian genocide in Nigeria, Oba Ladoja provided a balanced perspective, acknowledging that Nigeria currently faces substantial security challenges. However, the traditional ruler wisely noted that insecurity affects all religious groups and represents a global phenomenon observed in many nations worldwide.
The Imperial Majesty cautioned against allowing security challenges to divide the nation or escalate into full-scale conflict that could result in massive destruction of lives and property. He made a direct appeal to the PFN President to encourage Christian leaders across Nigeria and beyond to actively preach peace and embrace their role as keepers of their brothers and sisters.
In a message directed at national leadership, Oba Ladoja urged the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to intensify efforts toward reducing, if not completely eliminating, the insecurity plaguing various parts of the country.
Royal Promotions and Distinguished Attendance
During the same occasion, His Imperial Majesty performed significant traditional duties by elevating four High Chiefs and one Senior High Chief to new positions within the Ibadan traditional hierarchy. The promotions included:
- Oba (Sir) Eddy Oyewole from Osi Olubadan to Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland
- Oba Abiodun Kola Daisi from Ashipa Olubadan to Osi Olubadan of Ibadanland
- Oba Amidu Salawudeen Ajibade from Ekerin Olubadan to Ashipa Olubadan of Ibadanland
- Oba Adebayo Akande from Ekarun Olubadan to Ekerin Olubadan of Ibadanland
- High Chief Babalola SAN (represented by Elder Sunday Adeyemo Babalola) from Abese Olubadan to Ekarun Olubadan of Ibadanland
The event attracted numerous prominent personalities including members of the Olubadan In-Council, Her Excellency Mrs. Dolapo Osinbajo (wife of the former Vice-President), Chief (Mrs. Soyege) Balogun (Iyalode of Ibadanland), traditional rulers, religious leaders, and Barr. Ajeniyi Ajewole Sulaimon (President of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes).
Earlier during the visit, Bishop Francis Wale Oke had offered prayers for the monarch, asking God to grant him longevity in his service to both divinity and humanity. The PFN leader's visit and the subsequent royal pronouncements underscore the continuing relevance of traditional institutions in addressing contemporary national and global issues.
