President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Friday lauded the resilience and perseverance of Senator Rashidi Ladoja during the coronation of the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland. Speaking at the historic Mapo Hall in Ibadan, Oyo State, the President congratulated Oba Ladoja and extended his best wishes for continued joy, prosperity, and relevance in the institution of traditional …
44th Olubadan Coronation: Tinubu Hails Ladoja’s Resilience in Leadership
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Friday lauded the resilience and perseverance of Senator Rashidi Ladoja during the coronation of the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.
Speaking at the historic Mapo Hall in Ibadan, Oyo State, the President congratulated Oba Ladoja and extended his best wishes for continued joy, prosperity, and relevance in the institution of traditional leadership and Nigerian democracy.
“It is my honor, my joy, and my pleasure to celebrate this day with you and to wish you many more years of fulfillment, prosperity, and historical relevance,” Tinubu said.
The President also acknowledged the presence of prominent figures at the event, including former Governors- Donald Duke (Cross River State), Olagunsoye Oyinlola (Osun), and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso (Kano), while appreciating the excitement and enthusiasm of the people who lined the streets from the airport to the coronation venue.
Tinubu Praised Ladoja’s Resilience, Perseverance
Tinubu highlighted Ladoja’s determination during challenging moments in his political career, including his time as governor when he faced impeachment proceedings.
“Your perseverance, resilience, and determination have been remarkable,” he said, emphasizing the the traditional ruler’s enduring commitment to public service.
He further reassured citizens of Nigeria’s economic recovery, describing the country as emerging from a period of difficulty. “The economy has turned the corner. There is a bright light at the end of the tunnel,” Tinubu said.
The President further expressed gratitude for the Oba’s leadership and prayed for continued growth and prosperity for Ibadan, Oyo State, and Nigeria.
“Thank you for your perseverance, endurance, and understanding. God bless you, God bless your state, and God bless the Oba,” he added.
Ex-Oyo Gov Rashidi Ladoja Crowned 44th Olubadan
Earlier, Rashidi Ladoja, a former governor of Oyo State, was officially crowned the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland in a colourful ceremony attended by dignitaries, traditional rulers, and political leaders across Nigeria.
Ladoja received the crown at the Ose Meji Temple in the Ibadan South-East Local Government Area before proceeding to the Labosinde Compound at Oja’ba, where he was conferred with the traditional Akoko leaf.
The event later moved to the historic Mapo Hall, where Governor Seyi Makinde formally presented him with the staff of office, marking his ascension to the revered throne following the passing of the 43rd Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, on July 7, 2025.
Speaking while presenting the staff of authority, Governor Makinde said: “This is a momentum occasion in the presence of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in the presence of people and in the presence of God.
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“In exercise of the power conferred on me as the Governor, I hereby present the staff of office to Oba, His Imperial Majesty, Senator, Governor, Engineer, my Baba, His Imperial Majesty, Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja, Arusa the 1st.
“This is in confirmation as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland. I so present.”
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Dignitaries, Security Presence at Mapo Hall
The Olubadan received the instrument of authority in the presence of President Tinubu, governors, ex-governors, traditional rulers and religious leaders.
The coronation drew prominent monarchs and leaders, including the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade; the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Ọlaoye; the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III; and the Chief Imam of Ibadan.
Former governors Ibikunle Amosun of Ogun, Rabiu Kwankwaso of Kano, and Olagunsoye Oyinlola of Osun also paid homage to the new Olubadan.
The ceremony, which showcased Ibadan’s rich cultural heritage, witnessed a heavy deployment of security operatives from the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigerian Army to ensure a smooth exercise.
Olubadan Stool and Its Unique Succession System
The Olubadan stool remains one of the most revered traditional institutions in Nigeria, widely respected for its orderly and distinct succession system.
Oba Ladoja’s coronation not only reaffirmed the system’s resilience but also highlighted the cultural pride of Ibadanland as residents thronged the streets in celebration, dressed in colourful traditional attire.
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.
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