The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has urged newly installed community leaders (Baales) and family heads (Mogajis) in Ibadan to take the security of their communities very seriously.

Mr Ladoja stated this on Monday at the installation of the newly appointed family and community heads in Ibadanland.

The inauguration marked the first installation of Mogajis and Baales since the Olubadan’s installation on September 26, 2025.

At the ceremony held at the Oja-Oba Palace in Ibadan, 14 Mogajis and eight Baales were installed by Oba Ladoja in accordance with the Oyo State Chiefs Law and the Ibadan Chieftaincy Declaration.

The royal father charged the new family heads and community leaders to always be conscious of the security situation in their domains.

“I am sure that all community heads in Ibadan metropolis and Ibadan less city are aware that one of the greatest challenges facing Nigeria is security issues.

“As grassroots leaders, you need to be vigilant about what is happening in your environment. If it were for glamour alone, this installation exercise would not have been necessary.

“The responsibilities attached to the position of Ibadan Mogajis and community heads are enormous, and the appointment should not be seen as a glamorous event,” he added.

He urged the newly appointed chiefs to share information, collaborate, and network with their neighbours on how best to ensure the safety and security of lives and property of the people under their watch.

He also urged them to sensitise youths on the need to join security agencies such as the Police, Armed Forces, Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and other security agencies during recruitment exercises.

The Olubadan further stated that Ibadan would not stop the ongoing crackdown on land grabbers, noting that their activities constitute a threat to security.

In attendance at the ceremony were Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, Balogun of Ibadan; Oba Eddy Oyewole, Otun Olubadan; Oba Kola Adegbola, Otun Balogun; Oba Abiodun Kola-Daisi, Osi Olubadan; and Oba Abiodun Azeez Agagagugu, Asipa Balogun.

Others included Akim Adewoyin, Ekerin Balogun;  Sarafadeen Alli, Ekarun Balogun; members of the Iyalode-in-Council, Olubadan line chiefs, Mogajis, and Baales. 

(NAN)