By Stephen Gbadamosi, Ibadan
Ibadanland in Oyo State will be a bastion of religious freedom and tolerance where all religious adherents will be allowed to practice their religions without fear of molestation, intimidation and persecution “as in the days of our forefathers.”
Amid the prevailing climate of intolerance in parts of the country, the assurance was given by His Imperial Majesty Oba (Dr,) Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja (Arusa1), the Olubadan of Ibadanland, when worshippers of Egungun Eleriko paid him a courtesy visit at Olubadan palace, Oke Aremo, Ibadan,the Oyo State capital.
The assurance was contained in a press release issued and signed by the Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to the Olubadan, Chief Ayoade Solomon Olugbemiga, after the courtesy visit.
“I welcome you to Olubadan Palace. Like other religious practitioners, as a father of all religions, I need your prayers for the success of my reign, to sustain me, promote peaceful co-existence, rapid economic recovery and security of life and properties in Ibadanland,” he said.
Earlier in her speech, the leader of Eleriko masquerade, Iyalode Atiba, said it had been their practice from time immemorial to pray and support any Olubadan on the throne.
She promised to give Oba Ladoja all the necessary support, adding that the reign of the paramount ruler would witness unprecedented peace, religious harmony, protection of residents and economic prosperity in Ibadanland.
Present at the programme were Aseyin of Iseyin, Oba (Dr.) Sefiu Olawale Oyebola Adeyeri III; Oba Salawudeen Amidu Ajibade, Ashipa Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Dauda Abiodun Azees, Ashipa Balogun of Ibadanland, as well as masquerade leaders and followers.
*PHOTO CAPTION: Oba Ladoja.
