The Paramount Ruler of Iwoland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Abdulrosheed Adewale Akanbi, has extended heartfelt congratulations to the Olubadan-Designate, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, describing his emergence as a historic moment for Ibadan and Yoruba traditional leadership.
Oba Akanbi, widely known as the Oluwo of Iwo, hailed Ladoja as a phenomenal personality whose agility, intellect, and wealth of political and cultural experience will, in his words, “make a monumental difference in the history of Ibadan traditional institutions.”
Ibadan, one of the most influential Yoruba cities, is governed through a unique traditional hierarchy that has long drawn admiration for its orderly succession.
The ascension of Oba Rashidi Ladoja, a former governor of Oyo State, as the next Olubadan, marks a watershed moment in Nigeria’s traditional leadership history.
He will be the first former state governor to ascend the Ibadan throne, a development that has generated wide acclaim within and beyond Oyo State.
Oluwo stressed that Ladoja’s governance experience, statesmanship, and leadership qualities would distinguish his reign as Olubadan.
He added that the blend of political exposure and traditional responsibility would further elevate the Ibadan monarchy to national and international recognition.
The monarch also highlighted his personal maternal connection to Ibadan.
Oba Akanbi’s mother was a princess from the ancient city, a bond he said has long reinforced the cordial relationship between Iwo and Ibadan.
“The understanding between Ibadan and Iwo is ageless,” the Oluwo noted. “This accounted for why many Iwoland warriors were accommodated in Ibadan. We are inseparable till date.”
He emphasized that Ladoja’s ascension is not only a matter of Ibadan pride but also one that resonates with Iwo and other Yoruba towns that share historical, cultural, and familial ties with Ibadan.
Oluwo expressed optimism that the new Olubadan will consolidate the age-long cooperation between Ibadan and Iwo, noting that the two cities share a legacy of cultural resilience and political influence.
He urged Ibadan’s eminent sons and daughters, both at home and in the diaspora, to rally behind Oba Ladoja as he prepares to steer the affairs of the city to new heights.
According to the monarch, “Ibadan is not just a city but a cultural beacon in Yoruba land. With Oba Rashidi Ladoja as Olubadan, I strongly believe the city will witness constructive leadership that will build on its proud history and chart a path of greater relevance in modern times.”
The congratulatory message released by Oba Akanbi through his press secretary, Alli Ibraheem, specifically called for unity among Ibadan indigenes. He stressed that support for the new Olubadan was necessary to ensure stability and progress within the traditional institution.
“I congratulate the good people of Ibadan, most especially the Olubadan-Designate, Oba Rashidi Ladoja,” the statement read. “His agility and wealth of experience as a former Governor of Oyo State will distinguish him. I have strong hope in his ability to make a difference and make a monumental Olubadan in history.”
Oluwo also commended Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, for his continued support of the traditional institution in the state.
He said Governor Makinde’s respect for Yoruba culture and commitment to the traditional leadership framework had provided the enabling environment for smooth transitions within the royal houses.
“While I commend the Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, for supporting the traditional institution, I call on the good people of Ibadan to support the new Olubadan,” Oluwo declared.
Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, a respected political leader, served as Governor of Oyo State between 2003 and 2007.
Known for his bold decisions, people-oriented policies, and resilience in the face of political challenges, Ladoja has remained a towering figure in Oyo politics for decades.
His ascension as Olubadan is widely seen as a natural continuation of his service to the people, this time from a cultural and traditional leadership perspective.
His supporters believe his reign will bring modernization to the Olubadan institution, while also preserving its deep cultural heritage.
Analysts note that having a monarch with such a blend of political and cultural experience could position Ibadan as a central voice in Yoruba and Nigerian affairs.
As Ibadan prepares for the coronation of its new monarch, expectations are high that the Olubadan-Designate, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, will live up to his reputation as a leader who delivers both development and stability.
For the Oluwo of Iwo, this moment marks not only a new chapter for Ibadan but also a reaffirmation of the enduring bonds between Yoruba cities, their monarchs, and their people.
With the support of Ibadan indigenes, the Oyo State government, and fellow Yoruba traditional rulers, Ladoja’s reign as Olubadan is anticipated to be one of unity, progress, and monumental impact.
