The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has declared that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu deserves to remain in office for a long period, citing the President’s efforts and policies aimed at transforming Nigeria.
The monarch made the statement while speaking about the performance of the Tinubu administration and the need to give the Federal Government enough time to implement its policies.
Oba Ladoja reportedly noted that major reforms and development programmes require continuity before their full impact can be felt by citizens. He therefore expressed support for allowing President Tinubu sufficient time to consolidate the reforms being implemented by his administration.
According to the Olubadan, leadership should not be judged solely by immediate challenges, stressing that some government policies may take time before producing the desired results.
His comments come against the backdrop of ongoing debates over the performance of the Tinubu administration, particularly its economic reforms, rising cost of living, infrastructure development and other measures introduced since the President assumed office in May 2023.
The President has introduced several major economic policies, including the removal of the petrol subsidy and reforms in the foreign exchange market. The administration has also highlighted its investments in infrastructure, social intervention programmes, agriculture, student financing and efforts to attract investment into the country.
While the reforms have attracted criticism from sections of the public and opposition politicians over their immediate effects on Nigerians, the Federal Government has consistently maintained that the measures are necessary to rebuild the economy and place Nigeria on a sustainable growth path.
The Olubadan’s position therefore adds to the growing conversation over continuity in government and the long-term effects of the current administration’s policies.
Oba Ladoja, a former governor of Oyo State, is a prominent political figure in the state and continues to command considerable respect among traditional and political stakeholders in Ibadan and beyond.
His statement is also coming as political activities and discussions ahead of the 2027 general elections gradually intensify across the country.
The debate over President Tinubu’s performance is expected to remain a major issue in the build-up to the next presidential election, with supporters pointing to the administration’s reforms and investments, while critics continue to raise concerns over economic hardship and the impact of government policies on ordinary Nigerians.
