The city of Ibadan, in Oyo State, was filled with excitement as a former governor, Rashidi Ladoja, was installed as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadan.
READ ALSO: ‘Rare Gem In History,’ Tinubu Hails Ladoja On Coronation As Olubadan
Governor Seyi Makinde presented the staff of office to Ladoja at about 3:08 p.m. at Mapo Hall in Ibadan, the state capital.
“As the Governor of Oyo State of Nigeria, in exercise of the powers conferred upon me by subsections one and two of Section 20 of the Chiefs’ Law, Cap 28, Volume One, Laws of Oyo State of Nigeria 2000, and by virtue of all other powers enabling me in that behalf, I hereby present the staff of office to His Imperial Majesty, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja.
“This is in confirmation of the recognised status of the 44th Olubadan of Ibadan land, I so present,” Makinde said as he presented the symbol of authority to Ladoja.
The new Olubadan received the instrument of authority in the presence of President Bola Tinubu, governors, former governors, traditional and religious leaders.
The ceremony followed his receipt of the Akoko leaf at Labosinde Compound and the crown at Ose Meji Temple in Ibadan South-East, earlier.
Gov Congratulates New Oba
Makinde congratulated Ladoja, expressing satisfaction with the turnout at the event.
“It’s a great honour to celebrate the coronation and presentation of staff of office to His Imperial Majesty, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.
“I say congratulations to all sons and daughters of Ibadanland at home and in the diaspora. If you look at the crowd and people coming from the airport, the excitement shows we must uphold our tradition,” he stated.
‘Challenges Over’
The governor noted that the challenges surrounding the Ibadan traditional institution were now resolved.
“I also want to say that today all challenges associated with the Ibadan traditional institution are now over and behind us.
“What it means is that the traditional succession, the process, is now sacrosanct. We know everything about that succession,” Makinde said.
Makinde expressed hope that Ladoja’s reign would bring progress.
Highlighting the significance of the event, he noted the president’s presence in Ibadan. “Let me also say this: history was literally made today. The president landed at Ibadan airport,” Makinde added.
President Tinubu extolled Ladoja, 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.
READ ALSO: Tinubu Arrives For Ladoja’s Installation As Olubadan
The colourful event was attended by dignitaries from different walks of life.
They include serving and former governors, traditional and religious leaders.
Ladoja became Olubadan-designate following the passing of the 43rd Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who died on July 7, 2025.
Govs, Monarchs In Attendance
They 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 the Nigerian Army deployed to ensure a hitch-free ceremony.
