Tinubu, Atiku, other dignitaries set to grace Oba Ladoja’s historic Coronation as 44th Olubadan
The ancient city of Ibadan is bracing for a historic moment as Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, former governor of Oyo State, ascends the revered throne as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland. The grand coronation, scheduled for Friday, September 26, 2025, at Mapo Hall, has already attracted national attention, with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and former Kano State governor, Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, among the dignitaries expected to grace the occasion.
The announcement was made at a world press conference by Chief Bayo Oyero, Chairman of the Coronation Committee, who unveiled a week-long programme of cultural, spiritual, and social activities beginning Monday, September 22, and culminating in a thanksgiving service on October 2.
According to Oyero, the event goes beyond a traditional rite. “The ascension of Oba Ladoja is a journey of many years, meticulously guided by the wisdom of our ancestors. It reaffirms Ibadan’s unique and democratic succession process, a system that has preserved peace and stability for generations,” he declared.
Ibadan’s chieftaincy system remains one of the most orderly in Nigeria, with a clearly defined line of succession that allows for smooth transitions without rancour or dispute. For many indigenes, Oba Ladoja’s installation is not only the fulfilment of destiny but also a reaffirmation of the city’s enduring heritage.
The coronation is also politically significant. Few Nigerian monarchs ascend the throne with Oba Ladoja’s pedigree, a one-time senator, businessman, and governor. His wealth of experience across governance, politics, and administration has sparked optimism among residents that his reign will strengthen Ibadan’s influence both within Yorubaland and across Nigeria.
“Ladoja understands the grassroots as much as he understands the corridors of power,” Oyero noted, stressing that Ibadan indigenes expect him to harness his experience to bring progress, unity, and renewed pride to the ancient city.
The Oyo State Government has already moved to guarantee a peaceful and well-organised event, deploying over 2,000 security operatives across strategic areas of Ibadan. According to Hon. Ademola Ojo, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, personnel from the Nigeria Police, DSS, NSCDC, Amotekun Corps, and Oyo State Road Transport Management Authority (OYRTMA) will be on ground to ensure safety.
“This coronation is not just about Ibadan; it is a celebration of Yoruba heritage, Nigerian culture, and African pride,” Ojo remarked, describing the Olubadan stool as a revered institution that embodies unity and continuity.
Beyond security, the state government has also partnered with the Olubadan-in-Council and other stakeholders to line up colourful events including inter-religious prayers, a cultural fiesta, a coronation lecture, and a thanksgiving service. Each activity is designed to showcase Ibadan’s rich traditions, cultural inclusiveness, and historical depth.
Governor Seyi Makinde has been widely commended for his role in facilitating preparations for the event. According to Ojo, the governor’s unwavering support, timely release of funds, and respect for traditional institutions have been instrumental in ensuring a smooth coronation process.
The event is expected to draw not only politicians but also business leaders, members of the diplomatic corps, traditional rulers from across Yorubaland, and cultural enthusiasts from within and outside Nigeria. This, analysts believe, underscores Ibadan’s enduring role as a cultural capital of the Yoruba nation.
Observers say the symbolic presence of President Tinubu, Atiku, Kwankwaso, and other national figures at Mapo Hall could also transform the coronation into a mini-political convergence, further underlining the Olubadan’s influence beyond cultural matters.
In his remarks, Chief Oyero emphasised that the coronation is more than a celebration of tradition. “It is a reaffirmation of our unique system, a proud demonstration of Ibadan’s democratic chieftaincy tradition, and a moment to honour the ancestors whose wisdom continues to guide us,” he said.
For many indigenes, the coronation is also deeply personal. Ibadan sons and daughters across the world are expected to return home, turning the city into a melting pot of culture, commerce, and celebration. Hoteliers, traders, artisans, and transport operators are already counting on a commercial boom from the influx of visitors.
The coronation also highlights the delicate balance between tradition and modern governance in Nigeria. With Oba Ladoja’s background in politics and administration, expectations are high that his reign will champion development initiatives, cultural preservation, and perhaps, play a mediatory role in bridging the gap between political actors and traditional authority.
“Oba Ladoja’s ascension represents continuity, unity, and renewal for Ibadan,” said Barr. Ajeniyi Ajewole, President-General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII). “It is a moment of pride, not just for Ibadan, but for all Yoruba people.”
The coronation of Oba Ladoja is, therefore, more than a ceremonial passage. It is a cultural milestone, a political convergence, and a communal celebration of resilience, unity, and tradition. As the city prepares to welcome dignitaries from far and wide, Ibadan is once again set to remind the world of its historical prestige and its enduring place in Yoruba and Nigerian history.
When Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja finally mounts the throne as the 44th Olubadan, it will mark not only the fulfilment of his long personal journey but also the dawn of a new chapter in the story of Ibadan, one written with ancestral wisdom, political experience, and cultural pride.
