The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rasidi Ladoja, has quit politics, promising to focus on justice, fairness, and service to his people throughout his reign.
The newly installed Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja, Arusa I, has formally announced his retirement from partisan politics, emphasizing that his role as a traditional ruler requires total devotion to justice, fairness, and service to his people.
Oba Ladoja, a former governor of Oyo State, made the declaration on Tuesday when he received a delegation of political leaders at his palace in Ibadan.
The team, led by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, included former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, former Senate President Iyorchia Ayu, and other prominent figures.
Welcoming his guests, the monarch drew a clear line between his past life in politics and his present responsibility on the throne.
“I am no more one of you. I am not a politician anymore. Welcome to my house,” he said, stressing that he now stands apart from partisan affairs.
During the visit, the monarch revisited the highlights of his political career. He began his journey under the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in the early 1990s, during the military era that forced many pro-democracy activists into exile.
He recalled his experiences with Atiku Abubakar and others during those challenging years.
Ladoja later became a strong member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), through which he rose to the governorship of Oyo State in 2003.
His time in office was marked by both achievements and controversies, including political tussles that tested his resilience.
In a bid to carve out his own political identity, he later established the Accord Party, which quickly became an influential platform in Oyo State politics.
“From SDP to PDP, and later Accord, my journey was filled with lessons. But today, those days are behind me,” the monarch told his visitors.
Oba Ladoja explained that ascending the Olubadan throne required a full departure from partisan politics.
According to him, a traditional ruler must stand above political divisions in order to command respect and serve all subjects without bias.
“Now that I am the Olubadan, I am no more interested in any other things than the Olubadan,” he stated firmly, making it clear that his new duty is to uphold the dignity of the throne.
The monarch emphasized that his leadership will focus on peace, unity, and inclusiveness. “All the religious leaders have said that the only thing a leader can do is to promote justice and fairness.
“I will serve my people. I will serve Ibadan, Oyo State, Africa, and the world at large. I will depend on your support and advice,” he assured.
The Olubadan’s public renunciation of politics carries symbolic weight. As a former governor with deep political influence, his decision to step away from the partisan arena reinforces the expectation that traditional rulers remain neutral.
Analysts note that his withdrawal may further strengthen the authority of the Olubadan institution as a unifying force.
In Ibadan, the throne has historically played a stabilizing role in both cultural and civic life, and Ladoja’s declaration is seen as a reaffirmation of that legacy.
By separating himself from political ambitions, he positions himself as a father figure for all Ibadan people, regardless of party affiliation.
This move is expected to boost confidence in his reign, especially among groups who often look to traditional rulers as mediators during times of tension.
Although his guests did not make extended remarks, their presence was a strong signal of respect.
Atiku Abubakar has long-standing ties with the monarch dating back to their political collaborations, while El-Rufai and Ayu were once colleagues on the national stage.
The visit was not only a courtesy call but also a symbolic recognition of Oba Ladoja’s dual legacy as both a politician and a monarch.
Many Ibadan indigenes who witnessed the event described it as a moment that highlighted the transformation of a man once immersed in political contests into a royal father devoted to tradition.
Oba Ladoja reassured his visitors that while he has left politics behind, his commitment to public service remains unchanged.
He pledged to use the moral authority of his stool to foster peace, resolve disputes, and promote development.
He pointed out that traditional rulers are often looked upon as custodians of culture and arbiters of justice.
His reign, he said, would be measured not by political victories but by fairness, equity, and service to humanity.
“Ibadan people, Oyo State, Africa, and the world — these are my focus now. I seek only justice and fairness,” he said, underscoring that his authority derives from the people’s trust and respect.
For Ibadan residents, the words of their new monarch mark a turning point. Many see his decision as a sign that his reign will be defined by wisdom rather than political rivalry.
Community leaders have already expressed optimism that his background in governance will help him steer Ibadan through modern challenges while preserving its traditions.
Observers believe that Oba Ladoja’s unique blend of political experience and traditional authority could make his reign particularly impactful.
His deep understanding of governance, combined with his cultural role, places him in a position to influence both local and national discourse.
However, expectations are high. Ibadan people will be watching to see how he balances tradition with the demands of a fast-changing society.
His ability to remain above partisan politics will be key to sustaining the respect and unity his throne commands.
The declaration by Oba Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja that he has retired from politics marks the beginning of a new era for Ibadanland.
His promise to anchor his reign on justice, fairness, and service underscores the seriousness with which he approaches his new role.
For a man who once shaped Oyo State politics and contested at the highest levels of governance, the shift from politician to monarch is profound.
Yet, it is one that aligns with the timeless responsibility of the Olubadan throne — to serve as a guardian of culture, unity, and equity.
As the new Olubadan of Ibadanland settles into his reign, his people look forward to a period defined not by political battles but by peace, justice, and fairness — values he has pledged to uphold above all else.
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