History was made in Ibadan today, as former Oyo State Governor, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, ascended the revered throne as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.
The star-studded coronation drew together traditional rulers from across Nigeria, top government officials led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, state governors, and thousands of indigenes who thronged the ancient city to witness the once-in-a-generation event.
For Oba Ladoja, the journey to the throne was anything but ordinary.
After more than 32 years navigating the city’s unique chieftaincy ladder, his ascension is being celebrated not just as a personal triumph, but as a symbol of Ibadan’s values: perseverance over privilege, resilience over defeat, merit over inheritance.
The colorful rites began at the Agbole Oluwo Afobaje Laboshinde, where the monarch performed key rituals, including the opening of the calabash, paying homage, and receiving the symbolic “ewe akoko” leaf. He then proceeded, dressed in a flowing white agbada, to Ile Ose Meji, where traditional chiefs crowned him in keeping with Ibadan custom.
The final and most public phase took place at the historic Mapo Hall, where Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde presented the staff of office, signifying authority, to the new monarch.
The governor hailed the ascension as the end of lingering controversies around the throne and expressed confidence that Oba Ladoja’s reign would usher in peace and progress across Ibadanland and Oyo State.
President Tinubu, in his tribute, described Ibadan as a city central to Nigeria’s history and praised the throne of the Olubadan as a guardian of unity and tradition.
In his acceptance speech, the Olubadan expressed gratitude to both President Tinubu and Governor Makinde for their support. He renewed calls for the creation of an Ibadan State and pledged to use his reign to work for the growth, peace, and prosperity of his people.
For the people of Ibadan, the Olubadan is more than a king; he is a custodian of history, a protector of culture, and a symbol of unity. For Oba Rashidi Ladoja, the long and winding path has finally brought him to the seat destiny had long reserved for him.
Long may you reign, Kabiyesi.
