The Olubadan Coronation Committee has kicked off preparations for the historic September 26 coronation of Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, unveiling a week-long programme of cultural, spiritual, and celebratory events
The historic coronation of the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, is drawing near, and preparations officially began today with the inaugural meeting of the Olubadan Coronation Committee.
The meeting was chaired by Chief Bayo Oyero and convened with the goal of coordinating the extensive activities and ceremonies leading up to the coronation, scheduled for September 26.
Hon. Demola Ojo, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, was in attendance and took part in discussions that focused on ensuring a well-organized, culturally rich, and spiritually significant event.
During the meeting, committee members deliberated extensively and agreed on a comprehensive week-long programme of activities designed to celebrate Ibadan’s heritage while honoring the new Olubadan.
According to a press release signed by Prince Dotun Oyelade, Commissioner for Information, the week of celebrations will commence on Monday, September 22, with an Interdenominational Service at the Olubadan Palace, Oke Aremo.
This service, organized by the Central Council for Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), will provide a spiritual foundation for the events of the week and invite residents to unite in prayers for the prosperity of Ibadanland under the leadership of Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja.
The cultural celebrations continue on Tuesday with Cultural Day, jointly organized by the CCII and the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, where attendees can expect displays of Ibadan’s rich traditions, including music, dance, and art.
On Wednesday, the programme features a distinguished Coronation Lecture by the renowned historian Prof. Toyin Falola, offering insights into the history of the Olubadan institution and its significance in the socio-political and cultural life of Ibadan.
Thursday will witness a Mega Praise Worship at the Civic Centre, Idi Ape, bringing together religious leaders, community members, and residents in collective thanksgiving and celebration.
The week will culminate on Friday, September 26, with the grand Coronation Ceremony at Mapo Hall, marking the official installation of Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.
The commissioner noted that the inaugural meeting drew a wide array of dignitaries and representatives of Ibadan’s traditional leadership.
Key attendees included Asipa Olubadan designate Oba Hamidu Ajibade, Chief Nureni Adisa, and Chief Adeola Oloko, the media aide to the Olubadan.
Also present were the Commissioners for Culture and Tourism, Women Affairs, and Information, local government chairmen from Egbeda and Ibadan South East, representing the 11 local government areas of Ibadanland, and members of the House of Assembly from the region.
High-level administrative officers, including the Governor’s Protocol Director General and the Permanent Secretaries of Protocol and the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, also participated in the planning discussions.
The Olubadan Coronation Committee emphasized that the series of events is designed to be inclusive, culturally meaningful, and reflective of Ibadan’s historical and contemporary identity.
With meticulous planning already underway, the week promises a harmonious blend of spiritual, cultural, and celebratory activities, bringing residents together to witness a historic moment in Ibadanland’s rich heritage.
This inaugural meeting signals the beginning of a new chapter in the legacy of Ibadan’s traditional institution, ensuring that the coronation of Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja will be remembered as a landmark event that honors both tradition and community.