The Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, recently met behind closed doors with the Yoruba activist, Chief Sunday Adeyemo (better known as Sunday Igboho), at his residence in Bodija, Ibadan. The meeting disclosed by Igboho’s media team took place on Monday, September 29, and reportedly lasted about 40 minutes.
According to the statement, their conversation focused heavily on escalating insecurity in the Southwest and the growing threat of banditry. A source familiar with the meeting revealed that Oba Ladoja welcomed Igboho and his entourage warmly, expressing willingness to intervene on his behalf.
The monarch is said to have pledged to look into resolving Igboho’s longstanding issues including the federal government’s “wanted” declaration against him and the freezing of his bank accounts. Igboho has consistently denied accusations of stockpiling arms that led to his status as a fugitive under former President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration.
It’s recalled that on July 1, 2021, security operatives, including the DSS and Nigerian Army personnel, raided Igboho’s residence in Soka, Ibadan. The raid left two of his assistants dead and saw thirteen others arrested — a pivotal moment that intensified his clash with the federal government and elevated him as a significant figure in the Yoruba self-determination movement.
During their meeting, Igboho congratulated Oba Ladoja on becoming Olubadan, praising him as a respected leader beyond Ibadan. He described the monarch as a father figure since his days in public service and commended his leadership, humility, and influence.
Igboho also reiterated his intention to collaborate with the federal government to restore security in the Southwest, stressing that peace is vital for development. “Peace and security are essential for meaningful progress,” he said, while affirming that Oba Ladoja’s reign would further unity and development across Yorubaland.
