The ancient city of Ibadan stood still on Friday as former Oyo State Governor, Rashidi Ladoja, was crowned the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland in a colourful ceremony attended by President Bola Tinubu, four governors, ministers, monarchs, and political heavyweights.
Oba Ladoja, who made history as the first governor to ascend the Olubadan throne, received the staff and instrument of office from Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, at the historic Mapo Hall.
In his first official request as monarch, he urged President Tinubu to honour the people of the town with the creation of Ibadan State before 2027.
Speaking in Yoruba, he said, “My people sent me a message to Mr President. Mr President, they said the creation of Ibadan State is their priority. Give us Ibadan State before 2027.”
Present at the event were Governors Ademola Adeleke (Osun), Biodun Oyebanji (Ekiti), and Lucky Aiyedatiwa (Ondo).
Also present were former governors Olagunsoye Oyinlola (Osun), Kayode Fayemi (Ekiti), Donald Duke (Cross River), Rabiu Kwankwaso (Kano), Ibikunle Amosun (Ogun); and the wife of a former governor of Oyo State, Mrs Kemi Alao-Akala, among other dignitaries.
The President, who recalled Ladoja’s turbulent years as a governor, noted how his impeachment and political battles showcased his courage and determination.
He said it was an honour to witness a long-time political ally ascend the throne of his forebears.
Tinubu said, “Your suffering has been as painful to us as a painful surgery. But the economy has now returned to a moment of growth and prosperity. Thank you for your perseverance, and thank you for your endurance.
“Let me also salute the renowned businessman, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Adewolu Ladoja, Arusa 1, on the occasion of your coronation.”
Lauding the people of Ibadan for the support he received during his presidential campaign, Tinubu said, “I once came to Oke Mapo to seek your support to tell you ‘Emi l’okan’ (it’s my turn), and now we are there. Thank you very much.”
“It is a privilege for me, as President, to witness your coronation and all the things you’ve started, the expectations, and the history we share together as you ascend the throne of your forebears,” he added.
The President also saluted former governors: Duke, Oyinlola, Amosun, Mallam Shekarau, and “my friend, Rabiu Kwamkwaso.”
He said, “This moment is not for long, but to give joy and prayers to the man of the moment, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja.”
Presenting the staff of office and certificate of office to the Olubadan, Makinde, at exactly 3.05pm, said, “This is a momentous occasion in the presence of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in the presence of the people, and in the presence of God.
“In exercise of the power conferred on me as the governor, I hereby present the staff of office to Oba, Senator, Governor, Engineer, my Baba, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, Arusa the first. This is in confirmation as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland. I am so present.”
Makinde said the emergence of Ladoja as the 44th traditional leader of the ancient city was a source of pride to the people of Ibadan.
The succession process to the throne of Olubadan is now well established and free from contestation, and this is a source of pride for us all.
“I rejoice with the Olubadan, the Ibadan Council of Chiefs, and the entire people of Ibadanland.
“It is my prayer that the reign of Oba Adewolu Ladoja will usher in lasting peace, unity, and greater progress for Ibadanland and for Oyo State as a whole,” he added.
