A former Governor of Oyo State, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has officially been crowned the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.
He was crowned at the Ose Meji Temple in Ibadan South-East Local Government Area of the state.
Ladoja, who had earlier received the traditional Akoko leaf at the Labosinde Compound, Oja’ba, Ibadan, is expected to be formally presented with the staff and instrument of office by Governor Seyi Makinde at the historic Mapo Hall.
President Bola Tinubu has extolled the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, at his coronation, describing him as “a rare gem in history”.
Tinubu described the event as an honour to witness, noting that Ladoja’s journey reflected perseverance and reliability.
“Today is an exciting day. It’s a great honour to witness your coronation, to witness history,” the President said in Ibadan on Friday.
He praised the new Olubadan’s resilience during political struggles, recalling their shared history at the Senate and during his impeachment battle as the governor of Oyo.
Tinubu prayed that the monarch would live long and be remembered as a celebrated leader in Nigeria’s history.
The President also used the occasion to give Nigerians insight into the state of the economy.
“Today I am honoured and proud to give you cheering news that the economy has turned the corner,” Tinubu declared.
Tinubu also thanked Ibadan residents for their support during the 2023 elections, describing his visit as “a homecoming filled with joy and excitement.”
Guests at the event include serving and former governors, traditional and religious leaders.
Notable guests included the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade; Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Ọlaoye; and Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III.
Former governors Donald Duke, Ibikunle Amosun, Olagunsoye Oyinlola, and Rabiu Kwankwaso also attended.
Security was tight, with operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) and Nigerian Army deployed to ensure a hitch-free ceremony.
The Olubadan stool is respected for its unique succession system, where chiefs ascend step-by-step through established ranks.
