The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has expressed support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, saying the President deserves to remain in office for a long time based on his performance.
Ladoja made the remarks on Monday during the flag-off ceremony for the dualisation of the Ibadan-Ijebu-Ode Road.
Tinubu was represented at the ceremony by Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun.
The monarch, however, insisted that the event should not be interpreted as an APC political rally despite the presence of prominent members of the ruling party.
Ladoja said the gathering was primarily an opportunity to appreciate Tinubu for approving the road project.
He argued that the road is important to the safety and economic wellbeing of residents in Ibadan and surrounding communities.
The Olubadan said the condition of the road had previously contributed to security concerns, including kidnapping risks along the route.
Ladoja also rejected the suggestion that his comments were simply an endorsement of the APC.
He distinguished between support for a government project and partisan politics, saying Tinubu’s performance should be assessed beyond party lines.
His remarks came at the same ceremony that triggered controversy between the Oyo State Government and the Federal Government over the absence of Governor Seyi Makinde.
Oyo officials accused the Federal Government of politicising the road project by excluding Makinde, while Ladoja’s comments focused on the importance of the project and Tinubu’s approval of it.
The development comes against the backdrop of increasing political activity ahead of the 2027 elections, when Tinubu is seeking another term in office.
Ladoja’s endorsement therefore carries political significance in Oyo State, although his comments were framed around the President’s performance and the infrastructure project rather than a formal declaration of support for the APC.