President Tinubu, Atiku, Kwankwaso to attend coronation of 44th Olubadan

By Adejayan Gbenga –

President Bola Tinubu, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso, and other prominent dignitaries are expected to attend the coronation of Oba Rashidi Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.

The historic event is scheduled to take place next Friday at Mapo Hall, Ibadan. Oba Ladoja, who previously served as a senator and governor of Oyo State, shares a longstanding political history with President Tinubu, having served together in the Senate during the aborted Third Republic.

Speaking during a courtesy visit at his Bodija residence, Oba Ladoja confirmed that President Tinubu and other top dignitaries have pledged to attend the coronation.

Chief Bayo Oyero, Chairman of the Coronation Committee, described the installation as a significant cultural and historical milestone, emphasizing that it reaffirms the unique chieftaincy system of Ibadanland. He noted that the succession process reflects the city’s democratic and orderly traditions, which have ensured peace and stability over generations.

“Ongoing decades of careful preparation and ancestral wisdom have guided Oba Ladoja to this throne,” Oyero said, highlighting Ladoja’s wealth of experience, from grassroots governance to national leadership.

Oyo State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Hon. Ademola Ojo, added that the Olubadan stool is a revered symbol not only for Ibadanland but also for Yorubaland and Nigeria as a whole.

He described the coronation as a celebration of unity, peace, and Yoruba heritage.