The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, has restated his withdrawal from partisan politics, emphasizing that his primary responsibility as monarch is to serve humanity with fair of God.
This statement was made on Tuesday by the royal father when he hosted former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar and his entourage at his residence in Bodija, Ibadan.
Atiku, who was accompanied by the former governors like Senator Liyel Imoke of Cross River and Mallam Nasir El-Rufai of Kaduna, also on the entourage is former PDP National Chairman, Senator Iyorcha Ayu. Atiku said the visit was to personally congratulate the monarch on his recent coronation.
The former vice-president of Nigeria also used the moment to tender an unreserved apology for missing the coronation, attributing his absence to logistic and protocol challenges.
While speaking before the Olubadan and chiefs, Atiku said: “Kabiyesi, I want to begin with an apology. On behalf of my delegation, I regret our inability to attend your coronation, which marked the fulfillment of your lifelong ambition. It was not intentional but due to unavoidable protocol issues.
“Nonetheless, we looked forward to this moment. I sought your permission to lead this delegation to extend our congratulations in person and to wish you a long, peaceful, and prosperous reign. Please accept our apologies and our letter of congratulations. May God bless your reign and bring greater progress to Ibadan.”
In his reply, Oba Ladoja warmly welcomed Atiku and his team, reminiscing on decades of personal and political camaraderie with the visitors. He admitted being surprised at their absence during the coronation but said he understood the circumstances.
“Even though I am no longer a politician, the friendships we share remain strong. When I was informed your absence was due to logistics, I understood it was beyond your control. There is nothing to forgive,” he said.
The monarch recalled how Atiku was the first to inform him of the passing of the late Olubadan and highlighted his long-standing relationships with Ayu, Imoke, and El-Rufai, dating back to their political and senatorial days.
“Now that I am Olubadan, I am no longer entitled to be anything else. My duty is to serve my people. At 81, the rest of my years will be devoted to Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria, Africa, and humanity. Leaders are called to fairness and justice, and that is what I intend to uphold,” he added.
Oba Ladoja thanked the delegation for the visit, promising to remain close to his friends and associates while ensuring Ibadan continues to thrive in peace, prosperity, and justice under his reign.
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