IBADAN STANDS STILL FOR LADOJA’S CORONATION AS 44TH OLUBADAN

By Sunmisola Shodayo

In conjunction with the events organized for the coronation of the former governor of Oyo State, Senator Rashidi Ladoja, as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, spiritual leaders and residents of Ibadan as well as its surroundings convened yesterday to offer prayers for the monarch, who celebrates his 81st birthday today.

The gathering, hosted at Ibadan House, Oke Aremo, was graced by the President General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Ajeniyi Ajewole, the President of Ibadan Mogajis, Mogaji Asimiyu Ariori, Senators Sharafadeen Ali and Teslim Folarin, Chief Imam of Ibadanland, Sheik Abubakar Agbotomokekere, and Chief Imam of Ogbomosho, Imam Taliat Ayilara, among others.

Additionally, Ibadan indigenes from both home and abroad assembled to pay tribute to Oba Ladoja, a distinguished businessman, politician, and elder statesman.

Agbotomokekere and Ayilara, in their addresses, expressed gratitude to the Almighty for granting Oba Ladoja another year of life and the opportunity to witness his elevation as Olubadan.

Despite the celebrant’s absence, one of his descendants shared a concise biography of the monarch.

Dignitaries present commended the monarch, asserting that his contributions as senator and former governor in Oyo State merit recognition.

They expressed hope that Ibadan would experience unprecedented advancement during Ladoja’s tenure as Olubadan.

The event featured traditional dance, music, and prayers from well-wishers.

Ladoja is set to be formally installed today as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland at the historic Mapo Hall, alongside President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other distinguished guests.

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has stated that the ascension of former Oyo State governor Ladoja as Olubadan will foster enhanced progress, peace, and prosperity within Ibadan.

Oyo State CAN Chairman, Apostle Joshua Akinyemiju, made this statement in an announcement yesterday in Ibadan.

He noted that Ladoja has distinguished himself due to his intellect and leadership attributes.

He extended heartfelt congratulations to Ladoja, who is set to assume the throne as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland today.

“I therefore, on behalf of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Oyo State chapter, wish to heartily congratulate you on your selection and approval.

“Stepping into this enviable throne is an exciting feat, and we are delighted that God gave you the great opportunity.

“It is our belief that the dedication, ability and resilience that got you to the throne will continue to serve you well as you move along your acknowledged paths of justice, fairness and equity.

It is our supplication to God that you thrive on the challenges and joy this ascendancy of the throne brings your way,” the cleric stated.

He implored God to be with Ladoja.

Preparations are in full swing for the coronation of the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Ladoja, today. The historic city is vibrant with activities in anticipation of the celebrations.

From key marketplaces to local neighborhoods, residents have been expressing exuberance, characterizing the event as a momentous occasion in the cultural calendar of Ibadan.

The atmosphere throughout the city is filled with excitement as colorful decorations, banners, and billboards embellish key sites, while traditional drummers and cultural groups are set to enhance the grandeur of the coronation.
Residents assert that the coronation not only reaffirms the cultural legacy of Ibadan but also presents a chance for solidarity and festivities.

Traffic congestion has been significant in various sections of the metropolis, with certain routes suffering from gridlock due to diversions and preparations at key locations.

Law enforcement and traffic personnel have been assigned to maintain order, while residents are encouraged to organize their movements in advance of the event.

When the press visited the site yesterday, tent constructors, engaged in erecting the stage since Tuesday, were still diligently striving to complete their work.

Individuals were likewise observed assembling and establishing structures to achieve an ideal presentation.

Minor decorations were already being arranged at the site.

The venue and surrounding streets are currently experiencing a substantial security presence, including personnel from the Nigerian Army, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the Nigeria Police, among others.

Despite indications of potential rain, those laboring at the venue remained resolute, ensuring the task at hand was accomplished to perfection.

Several media outlets based in Ibadan, particularly radio stations, tasked with providing live coverage of the event, were noted at the venue establishing their operational positions. Notable participants already present include Solution FM, 32FM, Agidigbo FM, Splash FM, and Dominion FM.

The state-owned broadcasting entity, Broadcasting Corporation of Oyo State (BCOS), has also arrived at the venue with their Outside Broadcasting (OB) Van to initiate setup.

Television networks such as Channels TV, Arise, and TVC are anticipated to be present, with some of their crew members having already reached Ibadan for coverage.

Representatives from the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA), and Amotekun Corps were observed along the routes leading to the venue.

The coronation is expected to attract dignitaries from throughout Nigeria and beyond, including traditional monarchs, political figures, and cultural aficionados.

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has truncated his annual leave to attend and oversee the coronation of Oba Ladoja.

The House of Assembly announced yesterday that it had received and approved the governor’s notice of early return from leave.

During its plenary session yesterday, presided over by Deputy Speaker Muhammad Fadeyi in behalf of Speaker Adebo Ogundoyin, the assembly read and acknowledged the governor’s letter of resumption.

Governor Makinde, who had previously informed the assembly of his annual leave from August 29 to September 29, indicated in his correspondence that in light of the historic and culturally significant coronation of the new Olubadan, he found it necessary to shorten his holiday and resume his duties.

“I shall resume duty tomorrow, September 26, and thereby assume the full functions of the office of Governor of Oyo State,” the letter stated in part.

The governor expressed gratitude to Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal for fulfilling the role of Acting Governor during his absence and announced that the deputy governor “will now return to his substantive role.”

Members of the assembly embraced the governor’s decision and articulated their endorsement of his dedication to the cultural legacy of the state.

The plenary unanimously endorsed the resumption notice and commended Governor Makinde for demonstrating leadership and recognizing a significant event in the history of Ibadan land.

The session also reiterated the assembly’s backing of traditional institutions and praised the preemptive measures undertaken by the executive to facilitate a seamless coronation.