President Bola Tinubu has arrived at the historic Mapo Hall in Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State, to attend the coronation of Oba Rashidi Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.
The President’s arrival, which was met with a rousing reception from a massive crowd of dignitaries and citizens, marks the climax of the week-long series of events celebrating the ascension of the new monarch.
His presence and other dignitaries underscore the national importance of the occasion, as Ibadan celebrates the continuity of its revered monarchical institution.
Ladoja, a former Oyo state governor and senator, was selected as the 44th Olubadan, following the passing of Oba Owolabi Olakulehin on July 7.
Excitement is already sweeping across Ibadan as the city witnesses Ladoja’s ascension to the revered throne.
Ladoja, 81, is a respected businessman and political figure who rose through the traditional Olubadan chieftaincy ranks to become Olubadan.
The Olubadan of Ibadanland is the paramount traditional ruler of Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State, and one of the largest cities in West Africa. The Olubadan throne holds deep cultural, historical, and political significance among the Yoruba people.
Major roads were closed and security personnel from various agencies, including the police and DSS, were strategically deployed to ensure a peaceful and orderly ceremony.
The Mapo Hall, an iconic landmark in the city, was meticulously decorated, and billboards bearing the image of the Olubadan-designate were seen across the metropolis. The atmosphere is thick with cultural pride, with traditional drummers and dancers adding to the festive mood.
Oba Ladoja, a former Governor of Oyo State, has been the center of attention since the passing of his predecessor, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, on July 7, 2025.
The journey to the throne has been a long and distinguished one for the 81-year-old monarch, who has risen through the traditional chieftaincy ranks over a span of 32 years.
His coronation is particularly significant as he is the first former governor of the state to ascend the Olubadan throne, bringing a unique blend of political experience and traditional leadership to the revered stool.
Other prominent guests who have arrived for the occasion include the Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, who cut short his annual leave to present the staff of office to the new Olubadan.
Several other traditional rulers, political leaders, and business moguls from across Nigeria are also in attendance, highlighting the broad-based respect for Oba Ladoja and the Olubadan institution.
The ceremony is a display of the rich cultural heritage of the Yoruba people and a testament to the enduring importance of traditional institutions in modern Nigeria.
As the ceremony progresses, all eyes are on Oba Rashidi Ladoja, who has already completed key traditional rites, including the symbolic decoration with Akoko leaves. His coronation is not just a ceremonial event but a significant milestone that solidifies the continuity of the Olubadan lineage and marks a new era for Ibadanland. With President Tinubu in attendance, the event serves as a powerful symbol of national unity and a celebration of Nigeria’s diverse cultural heritage.
The PUNCH
