Soun of Ogbomoso visit Olubadan-designate Oba Ladoja in Ibadan, highlighting unity, heritage, and royal ties ahead of the September 26 coronation.
The Soun of Ogbomoso, His Imperial Majesty Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, on Monday paid a significant courtesy visit to the Olubadan-designate, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, at his residence in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.
The visit was more than a formality; it represented a deep cultural exchange, royal solidarity, and the reinforcement of historic ties between two of Yorubaland’s most influential traditional institutions.
The emergence of Oba Ladoja as the Olubadan of Ibadanland followed his formal nomination by the Olubadan-in-Council and the approval of Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State.
His ascension comes after the passing of the late Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakuleyin, who joined his ancestors on July 7, 2025, at the age of 90.
With his enthronement, Oba Ladoja is set to become the 44th Olubadan of Ibadan, a position steeped in history and revered as one of the most prestigious traditional thrones in Yorubaland.
The Oyo State Government has already fixed September 26, 2025, for his official coronation.
Oba Ghandi Olaoye, in a statement shared on his official Facebook page, expressed his delight at the opportunity to pay homage to the incoming monarch.
According to him, the visit was not merely ceremonial but one that carried weighty symbolic meaning.
“This afternoon, I had the distinct honour of paying a heartfelt courtesy visit to the new Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Senator Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja.
“It was more than just a royal meeting—it was a moment deeply filled with history, wisdom, and mutual respect,” the Soun noted.
Reflecting on the discussions held during the meeting, the Soun highlighted that their conversation revolved around issues central to the peace, stability, and development of both Ibadan and Ogbomoso.
He stressed that the dialogue was guided by the shared responsibility of traditional rulers to protect culture and heritage while promoting unity among their people.
“Our conversations were warm and meaningful, centered on unity, progress, and the shared destiny of our people.
“As we spoke, I was reminded of the enduring strength of our traditions, the guiding wisdom of our fathers, and the sacred responsibility we carry as custodians of culture and heritage,” Oba Olaoye explained.
Beyond the exchange of words, the monarch described the encounter as a spiritually fulfilling experience that reinforced the historical bond between the two cities.
He added that the ties between Ogbomoso and Ibadan date back centuries, and such relationships must be preserved for the benefit of future generations.
“For me, it was a moment of joy and fulfillment, one that reaffirmed the deep ties between Ibadan and Ogbomoso.
“May the bond of friendship and collaboration continue to grow stronger, for in our unity lies the path to greater peace, prosperity, and flourishing for generations to come,” he prayed.
The courtesy visit by the Soun of Ogbomoso is seen as an important step in consolidating unity among traditional institutions in Oyo State.
Royal watchers believe such gestures send a strong message of collaboration to the people, especially in a period where traditional leaders continue to play vital roles in conflict resolution, grassroots development, and the preservation of Yoruba identity.
As Ibadan prepares for the coronation of its 44th Olubadan, the solidarity expressed by the Soun of Ogbomoso serves as a reminder that Yoruba traditional leadership transcends city boundaries, emphasizing the interconnectedness of culture, history, and shared destiny across the region.