The Olubadan-elect, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has called on compound heads and community leaders in Ibadan to play active roles in making the remnants of ancient houses in the city more habitable.

Oba Ladoja made the appeal at the weekend while receiving hundreds of Ibadan Mogajis (family compound heads) who visited his Ondo Street, Bodija residence to congratulate him on his emergence as the next Olubadan of Ibadanland.

The monarch expressed concern that many Mogajis who are financially capable of initiating developmental projects in their ancestral homes have instead chosen to reside in highbrow areas such as Bodija, Oluyole, Iyaganku, Jericho, and Akobo—or even outside Ibadan and Nigeria—where living conditions are more comfortable.

He lamented that some had neglected their family responsibilities, failing to convene meetings or contribute to community development since receiving their chieftaincy titles.

“We are looking at a situation where Mogajis and chiefs would not abandon their ancestral homes. By so doing, you can positively impact the younger generation looking for mentorship. You lived in this same society and have become what God wants you to be. Please, let’s encourage the people at the grassroots by staying with them and sharing with them,” Ladoja said.

The Olubadan-elect noted that renovating and occasionally inhabiting old family houses in disrepair could help curb drug abuse and other social vices among youths.

He cited his own example, explaining that he had renovated his family house at Isale Osi and would be visiting it regularly as Olubadan to set the tone for others.

While commending some Mogajis for providing scholarships to indigent students and supporting genuine community development in their homesteads, Oba Ladoja urged them to extend such efforts further.

He appealed for their cooperation and support in his quest to restore Ibadan’s economic fortunes.

Earlier, the leader of the Mogajis, Chief Asimiyu Ariori, congratulated the Olubadan-elect, praising his vision and pledging the loyalty and cooperation of the family heads.

He also prayed for God to grant Oba Ladoja long life to rule and reign over Ibadanland. (The Guardian)