By Raji Adebayo

Copyright independent

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, and former Kano state governor, Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, are among the prominent Nigerians expected to witness the coronation of Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland next Friday.

According to Chief Oyero, other dignitaries and prominent traditional rulers are also expected at the coronation, which is taking place on Friday, September 26, at Mapo in Ibadan.

This disclosure was made on Saturday by the Chairman of the 44th Olubadan Coronation Committee, Chief Bayo Oyero, at a world press conference to highlight a week-long coronation program for Oba Rashidi Ladoja held at the Olubadan Palace, Oke Aremo in Ibadan, the Oyo state capital.

Chief Oyero noted that the coronation of Oba Ladoja will be a weeklong activity, starting from Monday, September 22, till October 2.

Chief Oyero noted that the installation of Oba Ladoja as the new Olubadan marks a great cultural and historical significance, saying the event will not just be a coronation, but a reaffirmation of the unique and timeless chieftaincy system of Ibadanland.

He noted that Ladoja, being a former Senator, Governor, and now Olubadan, is equipped with a unique understanding of the grassroots to the corridors of power.

He pointed out that Ibadan people are confident that Ladoja would bring his wealth of experience to the throne, leading Ibadanland into a new era of progress, peace, and prosperity.

According to him, “The ascension of Oba Ladoja is a journey of many years back, a path meticulously followed and guided by the wisdom of the ancestors. Ibadan succession process is a testament to its democratic and orderly tradition, a system that has ensured peace and stability for generations”.

Oyo State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Hon Ademola Ojo, in his remarks, described the Olubadan stool as a revered one, a cultural identity not just to Ibadanland, but Yorubaland and Nigeria as a whole.

Speaking on behalf of the Oyo State Government team at the Coronation committee, the Commissioner said, Oba Ladoja’s coronation signifies unity, peace, and fundamental celebration of Yoruba heritage.

He commended Governor Seyi Makinde for his exemplary leadership and respect for traditional institution.

The press conference was attended by the President General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Barr. Ajeniyi Ajewole, Ekeerin Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Hamidu Ajibade; Aare Egbe-Omo Balogun of Ibadanland, Olooye Adegboyega Taofeek Adegoke (FCA); Oyo State Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade; Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatubosun; Coordinator, Ibadan Compound Peace Initiatives (ICPI), Mogaji Nurudeen Akinade, and media aide to the Olubadan designate, Adeola Oloko, amongst others.