Former Oyo State governor, Senator Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja, has urged candidates disqualified under controversial circumstances by the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) electoral committee to proceed with their participation in the upcoming election.
Ladoja, who also holds the title of Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, made this statement while hosting some CCII members at his Bodija residence in Ibadan on Thursday.
The event was attended by both presidential candidates, Barrister Ajeniyi Ajewole and Mogaji Samson Olukayode Taiwo.
The CCII election is scheduled to take place in April. However, reports indicate that Mr. Adeola Oloko, a former personal assistant to the late Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Saliu Akanmu Adetunji, along with other candidates, have allegedly been disqualified by the electoral committee ahead of the election.
In response, Ladoja instructed the affected candidates to remain in the race. He also urged them to withdraw any legal actions filed against the CCII to ensure a smooth and peaceful electoral process.
Expressing concern over the rising hostility surrounding the elections, Ladoja criticized the use of defamatory language against opponents. He emphasized that CCII positions are voluntary and service-oriented, questioning why they have become so contentious.
“This is very disturbing,” he said. “Many social media users treat these platforms as spaces to say anything without restraint. People should remember that every statement made is recorded and can have lasting consequences.”
