The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has pledged robust support for vigilante groups across all 11 Local Government Areas of Ibadan, promising to equip them with financial resources and operational tools to combat insecurity, kidnapping, and other crimes.
The royal father made the commitment on Sunday during a meeting with executive members of the Bodija Estate Residents’ Association (BERA), who presented the inaugural edition of the Bodija Connect magazine.
💬 “I have held a meeting with the heads of vigilante groups in all 11 local government areas, and I have assured them they will be equipped to secure the lives and property of Ibadan residents,” Oba Ladoja said.
The traditional ruler also reassured the Bodija community of ongoing support, emphasizing that steps would be taken to ensure commercial activities do not disrupt the peaceful life of residents, in line with the vision of Bodija’s founding fathers.
BERA President, Dr. Muyiwa Bamgbose, hailed the presentation of the magazine as a milestone for community engagement and development. The publication addresses key local issues, including the Bodija explosion, heritage, and the community’s aspirations for a thriving estate.
Bamgbose raised concerns about insecurity, road safety, environmental noise, and poor electricity supply. He appealed for stronger security measures, including the use of technology to deter criminals, and called for the installation of speed breakers to reduce reckless driving.
The association also highlighted lingering effects of the Bodija explosion, noting that compensation to victims was scaled down and many affected households outside the 500-meter radius were excluded from relief efforts. According to Bamgbose, out of the N30 billion federal intervention, only about N3.9 billion had reached the victims.
Other BERA executives present included Vice President Mr. Dipo Olasope, General Secretary Mr. David Afolayan, Public Relations Officer Mr. Ayo Oyerinde, Treasurer Mr. Ayo Ola, and Financial Secretary Mr. Oluwatayo Moses.
