The Bodija Estate Residents’ Association (BERA) has formally called upon the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, to intervene in a mounting crisis involving insecurity, failing electricity, and inadequate support following the devastating January explosion.
The appeal was made on Sunday during a visit to the monarch’s palace, where BERA President Dr Muyiwa Bamgbose presented the maiden edition of the Bodija Connect magazine. The publication serves as a record of the community’s heritage and its recent struggles.
A Community Under Pressure
Dr Bamgbose noted that the association remains committed to the estate’s progress but requires “fatherly guidance” to tackle issues that have stripped residents of their peace. Chief among these is the precarious state of security in the Oyo State capital.
Residents expressed deep worry over rising abduction cases. Bamgbose emphasised the need for government-backed security measures and the deployment of modern technology to deter criminals.
Beyond crime, the association highlighted a decline in the quality of life due to:
- Noise Pollution: Increasing disturbance from local clubs, lounges, and religious centres.
- Road Safety: A lack of speed breakers to check reckless driving in residential zones.
- Power Failure: Chronic poor electricity supply affecting homes and businesses.
The Lingering Shadow of the Bodija Explosion
A significant portion of the appeal focused on the aftermath of the Bodija explosion. Dr Bamgbose urged for sustained support, noting that the current relief efforts have left many behind.
“Compensation paid to some victims had been reduced, while some houses beyond the 500-metre mark were excluded from relief,” Bamgbose stated.
The President described the Bodija Connect magazine as a milestone that captures these aspirations, ensuring that the collective memory of the explosion and the community’s drive for development are preserved.
The Olubadan Responds: Strengthening the Vigilante
Responding to the plea, Oba Rashidi Ladoja assured the delegation that security remains a top priority for the traditional stool. He pledged to bolster the local vigilante network across all 11 local government areas in Ibadan.
“Adequate support will be provided for the vigilante groups in all the 11 local government areas of Ibadan to put an end to insecurity, kidnapping and others. The provision will include financial and operational equipment so that they can effectively carry out their duties,” the monarch affirmed.
The Olubadan further promised to address the friction between commercial growth and residential peace.
“I have held a meeting with them and I have assured them that they would be equipped so that they can secure the lives and property of Ibadan residents,” he added.
The meeting included several BERA executives, including Vice President Mr Dipo Olasope, SAN; General Secretary Mr David Afolayan; and Public Relations Officer Mr Ayo Oyerinde.
