The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rasidi Ladoja, Arusa 1, has declared that antecedents and popularity of politicians jostling to contest the gubernatorial election in the state will determine their victory, not his name.

The former governor of the state, made the remarks while addressing journalists at his Bodija, Ibadan residence on Wednesday while responding to questions on state of the Nation.

Ladoja explained that the majority of the gubernatorial aspirants and candidates in the state are campaigning with his name, noting that all politicians in the state are his children.

He maintained that nothing is wrong if politicians seeking elective positions in 2027 are using his name to promote themselves, but cautioned that the antecedents and popularity of those seeking elective positions will determine their victory and not his name.

Speaking on the recent abduction of 39 students and seven teachers in some communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Ikoyi Ile in the state, the monarch explained that government and security agencies are doing their best to ensure the release of the children, describing the incident as sad.

“Let them use my name to promote themselves if it is meaningful to them. But the populace will decide who rules them at the end of the day, not my name.

“Government and security agencies are trying their best. It’s just that they won’t tell you what they’re doing to secure the release of those abducted for security purposes,” he said.

The traditional ruler also said he frowns at all manner of land grabbing in the ancient city and would ensure the menace is curbed.