The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin has admonished Igbos living in the ancient city to continue with their economic activities without fear or favour.
Oba Olakulehin gave this admonition on Tuesday when some members of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Oyo State chapter paid him a courtesy visit at his palace located at Oke Aremo in Ibadan North local government area.
The monarch who spoke through the Agba Akin Balogun of Ibadanland, Senior Chief Rafiu Emiola Onideure, said that Ibadan will continue to appreciate the economic contributions of the Igbos not just in Ibadanland but in Oyo State and Nigeria as a whole.
He reiterated his commitment to peaceful co – existence amongst various ethnic groups in the ancient city.
He further enjoined other non indigenes in Ibadanland to emulate the good gesture of members of the group.
“I implore you to continue with your business, social and religious activities peacefully and lawfully at all times as you have done in the past for the progress of Ibadanland.
“The contributions of the Igbos to commerce, trade and business in Ibadanland is worthy of commendation and well appreciated by all and sundry as it is a significant contributor to the Oyo State economy and by extension our nation”.
Coordinator of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Oyo State Chapter, Hon. Tallest Innocent, expressed his gratitude to the traditional ruler and the Olubadan- in- Council for the warm reception accorded them during the courtesy visit.
Innocent who doubles as the Special Assistant, Community Relations to Governor Seyi Makinde of the state, said that they were at the palace of the Olubadan to introduce the newly elected executives of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide to the monarch.