Olubadan visits Alaafin for Adeduntan’s coronation

By Adejayan Gbenga

The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, on Saturday visited the palace of the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, to attend the coronation of former FirstBank Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Adesola Kazeem Adeduntan.

Adeduntan, an indigene of Ibadanland, was conferred with the title of Balogun of Oyo by the Alaafin during the ceremony, which attracted dignitaries from across Oyo State.

The visit was significant as it marked Ladoja’s first trip to Oyo town since Owoade was crowned Alaafin, bringing the two traditional rulers together publicly.

The appearance of both monarchs also drew attention because of earlier speculation about strained relations between them following an incident at a previous public event.

Ladoja, who is chairman of the Oyo State Council of Traditional Rulers, had previously clarified that his failure to acknowledge or engage with the Alaafin at the event was not deliberate.

Against that background, their appearance together at the coronation provided a public display of cordiality and helped dispel speculation of a rift between the traditional rulers.

Meanwhile, Governor Seyi Makinde and his wife, Tamunominini, were installed as Aare Soludero and Yeye Soludero of Eruwaland by the Eleruwa of Eruwa, Oba Samuel Adebayo Adegbola.

The gathering brought together prominent traditional and political figures and underscored the role of traditional institutions in promoting unity and cooperation across Oyo State.