By Feyisetan Hamzat
Benny News Hub | Ibadan
The Progressive Forum, Ibadan (TPFI), has expressed deep concern over the rising wave of insecurity in Ibadanland and its surrounding communities, calling on relevant government agencies to urgently step up efforts to protect lives, farmlands, and property.
The Forum also decried the continued rise in food prices across Ibadan, noting that the situation has become increasingly burdensome for residents despite relatively stable petroleum prices and transportation fares. It urged the government to intervene decisively to address the widening gap between income levels and the cost of food.
These concerns were raised during the Forum’s 51st General Meeting held on Friday, January 16, 2026, at the Omo Aj’orosun Club House, Ibadan. The meeting, which had the theme “Why We Are Here,” brought together prominent Ibadan indigenes, professionals, and community leaders.
In a communiqué issued at the end of the meeting and signed by the Forum’s Secretary, Prince Kola Amoo Adelakin, TPFI reaffirmed its loyalty to the Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Senator Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, Arusa I, while congratulating him on his recent appointment as Chairman of the newly constituted Oyo State Council of Obas.
The Forum also expressed concern over reported land encroachment by individuals from Iwo at Ogburo area in Lagelu Local Government Area of Oyo State, allegedly linked to illegal mining activities. Members warned that such developments, if left unchecked, could escalate into broader communal and security challenges.
The meeting, chaired by Mr. Tunji Oladejo, featured keynote addresses and robust discussions on several pressing issues affecting Ibadanland. The Forum’s Chairman highlighted challenges in primary education, including declining learning standards and poor infrastructure, as well as the lack of basic amenities such as potable water in many communities.
Other concerns raised included persistent housing deficits, a strained primary healthcare system marked by poor service delivery, growing safety risks due to inadequate fire service facilities, and environmental neglect—particularly ineffective solid waste management—which poses serious public health risks.
TPFI resolved to formally engage the Oyo State Government on these issues, advocating urgent reforms and improved service delivery across critical sectors.
Members also deliberated on the need for strategic repositioning, stronger stakeholder collaboration, and sustained engagement with government institutions. In furtherance of its development agenda, the Forum announced plans to launch Ibadan Progressive Voice, an online newspaper designed to promote Ibadanland’s growth and spotlight the achievements of outstanding Ibadan indigenes.
The Forum further called on the Oyo State Government to insulate the Ibadan Circular Road project from political interference, while ensuring that concerns of project-affected residents are addressed promptly to prevent tension. It also demanded fairness and transparency in the allocation of newly constructed shops in major markets across Ibadanland, insisting that Ibadan indigenes should not be marginalised.
TPFI disclosed plans to pay a courtesy visit to the Olubadan of Ibadanland to brief him on its resolutions and seek royal support for peaceful and constructive engagement on issues affecting the city.
The meeting also resolved that the Forum would henceforth hold quarterly meetings, with the next scheduled for April 2026.
The event witnessed the formal unveiling of TPFI’s new Executive Council, led by Mr. Tunji Oladejo, in the presence of notable Ibadan sons and daughters.
The President-General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Barrister Chief Sulaiman Ajeniyi Ajewole, Aare Atunluse of Ibadanland, reaffirmed CCII’s support for TPFI through his representative, Elite Engineer Remi Oluokun.
The meeting concluded with a strong call for unity, collective responsibility, and sustained collaboration among stakeholders to promote peace, progress, and sustainable development in Ibadanland.
