Ooni of Ife visits Olubadan designate Rashidi Ladoja in Ibadan ahead of his installation as 44th Olubadan, drawing crowds in celebration.
Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, witnessed a major traditional event on Sunday as the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi, paid a courtesy visit to the Olubadan designate Rashidi Ladoja at his private residence in Bodija.
The visit drew large crowds and signaled royal solidarity ahead of Ladoja’s coronation.
The Olubadan designate Rashidi Ladoja, a former governor of Oyo State and respected elder statesman, is scheduled to be installed as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland on Friday, September 26, 2025.
His installation follows the passing of Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who died at the age of 90 on July 7, 2025, after a period of illness.
The Ooni’s convoy arrived at Bodija at 2:12 pm and was received by a jubilant crowd. Residents, traditional chiefs, Baales, Mogajis, and socio-cultural groups filled the residence and its surroundings.
The atmosphere was marked by drumming, dancing, and songs of praise as Ibadan people welcomed the royal guest.
At the entrance, the Ooni was personally received by the Olubadan designate Rashidi Ladoja, who was flanked by members of the Olubadan-in-Council.
Both monarchs exchanged warm greetings, underscoring the mutual respect between Yoruba traditional rulers.
The Ooni’s visit was seen as more than a formality. In Yoruba culture, the Ooni of Ife is regarded as the spiritual father of the Yoruba people, while the Olubadan is the paramount ruler of Ibadanland, one of the largest indigenous cities in Africa.
The courtesy call reinforced the unity of traditional institutions and the shared responsibility of preserving cultural heritage.
For many residents, the occasion was historic. They described it as a reminder of Ibadan’s central role in Yoruba history and a reassurance of support for the incoming monarch.
Observers said the visit also reflected the continuing relevance of traditional leadership in providing cultural guidance and promoting peace.
Senator Ladoja’s emergence as Olubadan is considered significant because of his political background. He served as governor of Oyo State between 2003 and 2007 and has remained an influential figure in Nigerian politics.
His journey to the throne follows Ibadan’s unique succession system, which rotates the title between two ruling lines—the Otun and the Balogun—based on seniority.
The system, often praised for reducing succession disputes, ensures that every qualified high chief has a clear path to the throne.
The Olubadan designate Rashidi Ladoja is expected to bring his political experience, administrative knowledge, and grassroots connection into his reign.
Supporters believe his leadership will strengthen the traditional institution and promote development in Ibadan.
Cultural analysts note that the Ooni’s presence in Bodija was a symbolic endorsement of the incoming Olubadan.
It demonstrated the importance of collaboration among Yoruba monarchs in sustaining unity and cultural pride.
In recent years, traditional rulers have played visible roles in conflict resolution, community development, and advocacy for national cohesion.
The celebration on Sunday highlighted these values. Women groups dressed in colorful Aso Ebi sang and danced, while young performers entertained the crowd with cultural displays.
Traditional praise singers eulogized both monarchs, and chiefs offered prayers for a peaceful reign and continued prosperity in Ibadanland.
The event also reinforced Ibadan’s identity as a city deeply connected to tradition despite its modern status.
As one of the largest cities in sub-Saharan Africa, Ibadan has historically been a center of military strength, politics, and culture. The installation of each Olubadan is therefore regarded as a renewal of heritage and a continuation of history.
Residents who spoke at the gathering expressed optimism about the reign of Senator Ladoja. Some described him as approachable and experienced, while others highlighted his role in community projects during his time in politics. They said his ascension to the throne would combine tradition with contemporary governance.
Preparations for the coronation are already in top gear. The Olubadan coronation will not be a single-day event but a festival of culture and tradition spread over several days.
- Tuesday, September 23: Festivities begin with a cultural fiesta at Olubadan Stadium, Iyaganku, featuring traditional dances, masquerades, and artistic displays.
- Wednesday, September 24: A coronation lecture will be delivered at the University of Ibadan’s International Conference Centre by renowned historian Professor Toyin Falola.
- Thursday, September 25: A mega praise and worship concert will hold at the Civic Centre, Idi-Ape, coinciding with Oba Ladoja’s 81st birthday celebration.
- Friday, September 26: The grand coronation takes place at the historic Mapo Hall, a venue symbolic of Ibadan’s political and cultural history.
- Sunday, September 28: A thanksgiving service at the Catholic Cathedral, Oke Padre, will be held to offer prayers for the new monarch.
- Friday, October 3: The celebrations conclude with a special Jumat service at the Ojaba Central Mosque.
This multi-day program is designed to showcase Ibadan’s cultural richness, academic pride, religious inclusivity, and political history, making the coronation not just a royal installation but a festival of identity.
As preparations intensify, expectations remain high. The ceremony is likely to attract dignitaries from across Nigeria, including traditional rulers, political leaders, and citizens eager to witness history. Security agencies and the Olubadan-in-Council are already putting plans in place to ensure a smooth and colorful event.
The Ooni’s visit has therefore set the tone for the coronation. By honoring the Olubadan designate Rashidi Ladoja with his presence, he reinforced the bond between Ife and Ibadan, while also lending cultural legitimacy to the incoming monarch.
For the people of Ibadan, the gathering was a reminder that tradition remains a unifying force. It was not just about the exchange between two monarchs, but about the collective celebration of identity, continuity, and the resilience of Yoruba heritage.
As the city counts down to Friday’s installation, Ibadan prepares to welcome a new chapter under the leadership of the 44th Olubadan.
The reign of Senator Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja is expected to blend history, experience, and a renewed vision for Ibadanland.
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