Oba Rashidi Ladoja Crowned 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Vows Service and Urban Renewal

Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State, witnessed a historic moment yesterday as former state governor, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, was crowned the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland. Receiving his Staff of Office from Governor Seyi Makinde, the new monarch promised a fresh era of development and dedicated service to his people.

In his acceptance speech delivered in Yoruba and English, Oba Ladoja declared, “With my ascension to the throne, there shall be a new dawn in Ibadanland. Our role as kings is not just to wear royal beads and acquire women but to serve the people. I will devote my life to serving the people of Ibadanland diligently.”

He also acknowledged the city’s resourcefulness and the vision of its forefathers in attracting federal institutions and private businesses, stressing that they now have a duty to give back to the people.

“This Staff of Office, presented by the governor, brings joy to all Ibadan sons and daughters. One year ago, some thought Ibadan would scatter, but the city has a way of settling its matters. Today, we are united,” he said.

Oba Ladoja appealed to President Bola Tinubu to support the creation of Ibadan State before May 2027. He further announced plans for urban renewal, pledging a multi-billion Naira Economic Development Programme to revive businesses and create jobs for youths.

“I thank God for guiding me from my start as Mogaji in 1993 to this moment. As Olubadan, I pledge to promote peace, love, and unity among our diverse people, with the full backing of the Olubadan-in-Council, local chiefs, and titleholders,” he added.

Governor Makinde, while presenting the Staff of Office, highlighted the significance of the moment, noting the arrival of President Tinubu in Ibadan via a wide-bodied aircraft at the upgraded Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport as a historic first. He said, “The ascension of the new Olubadan reflects the excitement of residents who value the preservation of our traditional institutions. The era of Oba Ladoja marks a period of peace, progress, and development for Ibadanland.”

President Tinubu praised Oba Ladoja’s resilience and leadership, recalling their days in the Nigerian Senate and the former governor’s comeback after impeachment. He prayed for long life and success for the new monarch.

The coronation drew an impressive array of dignitaries, including Deputy Governor Abdulraheem Bayo Lawal; Governors Ademola Adeleke (Osun), Biodun Oyebanji (Ekiti), Lucky Aiyedatiwa (Ondo); Minister of Power Adebayo Adelabu; and former governors from Ogun, Osun, Ekiti, Kano, and Cross River States.

Oyo State functionaries, traditional rulers including the Sultan of Sokoto and Alaafin of Oyo, service commanders, religious leaders, and members of the Forum of Former Governor’s Wives also attended the historic event, alongside thousands of residents celebrating the city’s rich heritage and continuity of its traditional institutions.

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