As the culmination of a week-long series of events celebrating the ascension of the new monarch, President Bola Tinubu has arrived at the historic Mapo Hall in Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State, to attend the coronation of Oba Rashidi Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.
His presence and that of other dignitaries highlight the significance of the event for the country as Ibadan celebrates the continuation of its esteemed monarchical institution.
Ladoja, a former senator and governor of Oyo state, was chosen as the 44th Olubadan after Oba Owolabi Olakulehin passed away on July 7.
Ibadan is already experiencing a wave of excitement as Ladoja ascends to the cherished throne.
Ladoja, 81, is a well-known politician and businessman who became Olubadan after rising through the ranks of the ancient Olubadan chieftaincy.
The most important traditional leader of Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State and one of the biggest cities in West Africa, is the Olubadan of Ibadanland. The Yoruba people place great cultural, historical, and political importance on the Olubadan throne.
To guarantee a calm and orderly celebration, major highways were blocked, and security officers from many agencies—including the DSS and police—were placed in strategic locations.
The city’s famous landmark, Mapo Hall, was beautifully embellished, and the Olubadan-designate’s image could be seen on billboards all throughout the city. Traditional drummers and dancers contribute to the joyous ambiance, which is infused with a strong sense of ethnic pride.
Since his predecessor, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, died on July 7, 2025, Oba Ladoja, a former governor of Oyo State, has been the focus of attention.
Over the course of 32 years, the 81-year-old monarch has ascended through the traditional chieftaincy ranks, making his ascent to the throne a long and dignified one.
Being the first former governor of the state to take the Olubadan throne, his coronation is especially noteworthy since he brings a special combination of political experience and traditional leadership to the esteemed position.
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, who interrupted his yearly leave to introduce the new Olubadan’s staff, is among the other notable visitors who have come for the event.
The presence of numerous other traditional leaders, political figures, and business titans from all around Nigeria shows how widely respected Oba Ladoja and the Olubadan institution are.
The event serves as both a showcase for the Yoruba people’s rich cultural legacy and evidence of the continued significance of traditional institutions in contemporary Nigeria.
Oba Rashidi Ladoja, who has already finished important customary ceremonies including the symbolic adornment with Akoko leaves, is the centre of attention as the celebration goes on.
In addition to being a formal occasion, his coronation is a momentous occasion that ushers in a new era for Ibadanland and ensures the continuation of the Olubadan line. The event, which is attended by President Tinubu, is a celebration of Nigeria’s rich cultural legacy and a potent symbol of national togetherness.
