Olubadan Stadium hosts spectacular cultural day in honour of Oba Ladoja

By Adejayan Gbenga –

Ibadan was aglow on Tuesday as Olubadan Stadium transformed into a festival ground for the Cultural Day celebration in honour of the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja.

The event, which formed part of weeklong activities ahead of Friday’s coronation, attracted traditional rulers, chiefs, artisans, cultural troupes, and residents from across the city.

The celebration was marked by colourful displays of masquerades, talking drums, and vibrant dances showcasing Ibadan’s rich heritage.

Speaking at the ceremony, Chief Bayo Oyero, Chairman of the 44th Coronation Committee and former President-General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), said the event was designed to highlight Ibadan’s cultural pride and communal spirit.

“The Cultural Day is not just about drumming and dancing; it is about telling our story of resilience, courage, and innovation. Kabiyesi Ladoja embodies these values, and today we celebrate both our king and our city,” Oyero stated.

CCII President-General, Chief Ajeniyi Ajewole, praised Oba Ladoja as a statesman of national repute with a vision to make Ibadan a city of global standing.

Also, Chief Adegboye Adegoke, Co-chairman of the Special Planning Committee, described the celebration as the opening chapter of a weeklong programme.

He noted that the coronation lecture by Professor Toyin Falola would hold on Wednesday at the University of Ibadan, ahead of Friday’s grand coronation at Mapo Hall, which will draw dignitaries from across Nigeria.