A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and prominent Ibadan-born political leader, Engr. Oyedele Hakeem Alao (popularly known as Allow Alao), has commended the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba (Sen.) Rashidi Ladoja, for the series of bold and visionary steps taken to restore dignity, security, and economic prosperity to Ibadanland.
Alao in a statement he personally signed, noted that the first major step, which signaled the beginning of this transformative agenda, was the inauguration of the Anti-Land Grabbing Legal Advisory Committee at the Olubadan Palace, Oke Aremo, Ibadan.
The committee, chaired by leading legal icons including Chief Niyi Akintola (SAN) and Barr. Musibau Adetunbi (SAN) along with other respected legal professionals, was mandated to confront, analyze, and dismantle the network of land-grabbing syndicates that have for years threatened peace, security and rightful land ownership in Ibadan.
Engr. Alao remarked that this step is courageous, strategic and long overdue, noting that land grabbing has damaged Ibadan’s image and put many families and investors at risk.
“By taking this initiative first, the Olubadan has made it clear that Ibadan will no longer be a playground for violence, lawlessness, and illegal land possession. This is leadership that protects its people,” Alao stated.
He further applauded the shared resolve of both the Olubadan-in-Council and the Oyo State government to eradicate the menace, acknowledging that such cooperation strengthens the rule of law and secures the future of Ibadan communities.
Following the anti-land grabbing initiative, Engr. Alao also hailed the recent inauguration of the Monarch Investment and Economic Committee, designed to engineer industrial revival, attract investment, generate employment, and restore Ibadan as a commercial powerhouse.
The committee features highly accomplished personalities including Chief (Mrs.) Onikepo Akande, former Minister of the Federal Republic (Chairman); Prof. Dapo Afolabi, former Head of Service of the Federation (Co-Chairman); Dr. Kazeem Adeduntan, former GMD First Bank; Chief Dotun Sanusi; Agbaoye Kola Karim, and Olooye Adegboyega Taofeek Adegoke, among other seasoned entrepreneurs and technocrats.
Engr. Alao described this as a visionary blueprint for industrial regeneration, noting that no monarch in recent history has taken such a structured and intentional step to revive the economic lifeline of Ibadanland.
“What we are witnessing under Oba Ladoja has never happened before in this form and depth. This is beyond ceremony — it is development, leadership, and legacy in action,” he said.
He then called on all sons and daughters of Ibadanland, home and abroad, to unite behind the Olubadan to ensure lasting impact and sustainable progress.
“This is a reign of restoration. A reign that protects the land and builds prosperity for the people,” he added.
Engr. Alao then prayed for long life, wisdom, and continued strength for Oba Ladoja.