Olubadan-designate, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has called on the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, to deepen efforts at fostering unity among Yoruba traditional rulers, stressing that harmony remains crucial to the progress of the Yoruba race.
Oba Ladoja made the appeal on Sunday while hosting the Ooni at his residence on Ondo Street, Bodija, Ibadan. He described the visit as both historic and spiritually significant, noting that Yorubaland was at a critical point where unity among monarchs must go beyond rhetoric to practical action.
“If we all come together with our ideas, we will succeed. As God will have it, the president of the country is our son, and he has assured me he will attend my coronation,” Ladoja said.
Acknowledging the Ooni’s decade-long experience on the throne, Ladoja expressed readiness to learn from him and other traditional rulers. He also revealed that Oba Ogunwusi had supported his ascension to the Olubadan throne as far back as four years ago.
“I told him then that only God enthrones at the rightful time. Today, I thank God and Kabiyesi Ooni for standing by me in my most trying times,” he said.
The former Oyo State governor praised the Ooni’s solidarity during political and personal challenges, describing him as a rare royal figure who prioritises loyalty and tradition over politics and ego. He further urged Yoruba monarchs to strengthen cultural values and institutions that unite them, warning that disunity only gives room for political manipulation.
“All the governors who have visited me emphasised the importance of Yoruba unity. That unity must start with traditional rulers. If we are united, the political class will not be able to manipulate us,” Ladoja stressed.
He also charged Ibadan Mogajis to address drug abuse in their domains and warned Baales against betraying their people, vowing that offenders would face sanctions.
In his remarks, the Ooni of Ife described Oba Ladoja as “a father of all,” whose ascension marks a turning point for Yoruba traditional leadership. He noted Ibadan’s historic role within Yoruba civilisation, recalling that some Oonis once sojourned in the city, which he called a “cradle of strength and resilience.”
Calling for an end to rivalry and unhealthy competition among monarchs, Ooni Ogunwusi said: “We cannot afford division. If we fail to unite, we fail our ancestors and our people. Let us lead by example and leave legacies of peace and dignity.”
The Ooni also urged Oba Ladoja to remain vigilant against detractors. “Not everyone who visits comes with good intentions. Be discerning, Kabiyesi. Your journey to this throne was divine—do not be distracted,” he cautioned.
The Ooni’s arrival was marked by pomp and pageantry, with traditional drummers, dancers, and crowds of indigenes lining the streets to witness the historic moment.
