Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, was agog on Friday as prominent traditional rulers, political leaders and other dignitaries gathered for the official coronation of former Oyo State governor, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.
Royal fathers at the historic ceremony included the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrasheed Adewale Akanbi; Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Olaoye; Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade I; the Olugbo of Ugbo Kingdom in Ondo State, Oba Dr. Frederick Akinruntan; and the Eleruwa of Eruwa, Oba Samuel Adegbola.
The event also drew notable personalities such as Oyo State Deputy Governor, Adebayo Lawal; former Ogun State governors Senator Gbenga Daniel and Senator Ibikunle Amosun; former National Security Adviser, Col. Sambo Dasuki (retd.); and the Iyaloja-General of Nigeria, Folasade Tinubu-Ojo, daughter of President Bola Tinubu. The President was also expected to attend the ceremony.
Fuji star Taye Currency thrilled the massive crowd with a vibrant musical performance, adding colour to the celebrations.
As part of Ibadan tradition, the Afobaje of Ibadanland, Chief Waheed Popoola of the Labosinde Compound, Oja’ba, placed Akoko leaves on Oba Ladoja’s head to signify his acceptance as monarch, a gesture that drew loud cheers from the audience.
The new Olubadan will proceed to the Ose Meji House for the final rites of his installation, where he will officially receive the staff of office.
Ladoja, an elder statesman and former governor of Oyo State, became Olubadan-designate following the death of Oba Owolabi Olakulehin on July 7, 2025.
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