Over 5,000 Residents of Ibadanland have benefitted from the Ramadan Fast and Lent food package distributed by the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja
Each of the beneficiaries who went home with cash, school bags for children and food stuff such as rice, beans, semovita, garri, maize and noddles, at the event held at his private residence, Bodija, Ibadan, were full of appreciation to the Monarch.
Speaking while handling the yearly Ramadan/Lent package to the beneficiaries, Oba Ladoja said the motive behind the gesture was part of determination to be giving back to the society.
The monarch, who was represented at the event by his wife, Olori Rashidat Olayinka Ladoja said Oba Ladoja has been doing such for the past 20 years.
She said, “Baba Ladoja has been doing this for the past 20 years, but this is the first time we are doing this since Oba Ladoja ascended the throne as the Olubadan of Ibadanland. So, it’s not different from what we have been doing before. It’s only that the beneficiaries are plenty this year.
“Last year, we distributed to about 5,000 people. This year, they are more than 5,000. We thank God the arrangement is hitch free as there is orderliness.
“Oba Ladoja is just a man who priotise the welfare of his people as a Senator, former governor, and now as the Olubadan of Ibadanland. Olori Rashidat added.
Ramadan, which is observed by Muslims worldwide, is marked by fasting, prayer and acts of charity, while Lent is a period of reflection, sacrifice and generosity among Christians.
Community leaders and beneficiaries who attended the event commended the monarch for sustaining the programme over the years.
Some of the beneficiaries said the food items and financial support would help their households during a period when many families face rising food costs.
The distribution exercise formed part of the Oba Ladoja’s broader humanitarian efforts aimed at supporting the less privileged and strengthening social bonds among residents of Ibadanland, irrespective of religious affiliation.