Olubadan Seeks FG’s Help on Ibadan Ecological Challenges
Olubadan Seeks FG’s Help on Ibadan Ecological Challenges
The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has called on the Federal Government to provide urgent assistance in addressing the persistent ecological challenges facing various communities within the ancient city.
The monarch made this appeal during a recent visit to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, in Abuja.
Accompanied by a high-profile delegation including Senator Fatai Buhari representing Oyo North and Senator Sharafadeen Alli representing Oyo South, the traditional ruler highlighted the environmental threats looming over his domain.
He expressed concern that while some areas have received attention, many others remain vulnerable to the devastating effects of flooding and erosion.
In a statement released by his media aide, Adeola Oloko, the Olubadan acknowledged the significant strides made through previous interventions by the Federal Government and the World Bank. He specifically pointed to the Ogunpa channelisation programme as a successful example of how such collaboration can mitigate ecological disasters in urban centers.
However, the monarch noted that the focus has often been on more prominent neighborhoods, leaving less-privileged areas in a precarious state. He observed that the Ogunpa project gained widespread attention because it stretched through elite corridors such as Mokola, Ekotedo, Oke Ado, and Molete, which are central to the city’s activity.
Making a case for the underserved parts of the city, the Olubadan said: “I want to request the assistance of the Federal Government to help solve the ecological problems threatening the downtrodden people living around Oranyan, Kudeti Agbongbon Area and some other parts of the city that have not been in the spotlight due to no fault of theirs.
What the numerous people along this route encounter during the rainy season is better imagined than told.”
Responding to the plea, the SGF, George Akume, commended the Olubadan for his dedication to the welfare of his subjects. He remarked that the monarch’s journey from Ibadan to the nation’s capital to advocate for his people was a testament to why he holds a deep level of affection and respect among the citizens of Ibadanland.
The SGF assured the visiting delegation that the Federal Government remains committed to the safety and development of all regions. He promised that the government would take necessary steps to examine the ecological issues raised and provide the required assistance to protect the lives and livelihoods of those in the affected Ibadan communities.
