Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has congratulated the 44th Olubadan of Ibadan-designate, Abdul-Rasheed Adewolu Ladoja, ahead of his coronation ceremony scheduled for Friday.
Obasanjo, in a statement issued by his Special Assistant on Media, Kehinde Akinyemi, urged the former Oyo State governor to embrace humility, patience, divine wisdom, and tolerance in his new role.
He particularly advised Ladoja to draw a clear line between politics and tradition in order to succeed as the traditional ruler of Ibadanland.
“It is an exalted and responsible position to be the traditional ruler of all Ibadan people. It requires humility, patience, divine wisdom, tolerance, and advice from wide and varied quarters to succeed. Traditional rulership does not compete or conflict with political rulership,” Obasanjo said.
He wished the Olubadan-designate “the grace, guidance, and direction of Almighty God.”
In August, the Olubadan-In-Council unanimously endorsed Ladoja, the Otun Olubadan and highest-ranking chief in the civil line, as the next monarch. The decision followed the passing of the 43rd Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, on July 7, 2025.
The ratification was held at the new Olubadan Palace in Oke Aremo, Ibadan. By the city’s unique rotational succession system, Ladoja was first in line for the throne.
The coronation of Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland will attract President Bola Tinubu, top Yoruba monarchs, political leaders, captains of industry, and thousands of Ibadan indigenes.
