As Ibadan prepared to crown former Oyo State Governor Rashidi Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan, the city was alive with ceremony, prayer, and anticipation. The event coincided with Ladoja’s 81st birthday and drew both traditional leaders and residents to Ibadan House, Oke Aremo.
Among those present were the President General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Ajeniyi Ajewole; Mogaji Asimiyu Ariori; Senators Sharafadeen Ali and Teslim Folarin; Chief Imam of Ibadanland, Sheikh Abubakar Agbotomokekere; Chief Imam of Ogbomosho, Imam Taliat Ayilara; and numerous others.
While Ladoja was absent, one of his children delivered a brief biography, and dignitaries praised his contributions as governor and senator. Religious leaders offered prayers, giving thanks for his longevity and for his elevation to the throne.
Many attendees voiced hope that under Ladoja’s reign, Ibadan would experience renewed development and unity. Traditional dances, musical performances, and communal supplications featured prominently in the ceremony.
The formal installation was slated for Mapo Hall, with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other national figures expected to attend. The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Oyo State chapter, issued a congratulatory statement, urging that Ladoja’s ascension bring peace, equity, and growth to Ibadan.
In the run-up to the coronation, the city was festooned with decorations, banners and billboards. The atmosphere was electric: traffic snarls became common, security forces – including Army, DSS, NSCDC, and Police – were deployed, and media outlets mobilized for live coverage. Among the media on site were BCOS (Oyo State), Solution FM, 32FM, Agidigbo FM, Splash FM, Dominion FM, and television stations like Channels, Arise, and TVC.
Governor Seyi Makinde cut short his leave to oversee the historic event. The Oyo State House of Assembly formally approved his early resumption, praising his decision to honour the cultural importance of the coronation.
