Tinubu, dignitaries to storm Ibadan for Ladoja’s grand Coronation

By Akeem Abas 

Ibadan is set to host a historic cultural spectacle as preparations reach final stages for the coronation of Senator Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.

President Bola Tinubu, alongside traditional rulers, captains of industry, political leaders, and Ibadan indigenes from across the globe, is expected to attend the week-long festivities.

The celebration will culminate on Friday, September 26, at Mapo Hall, where Ladoja will formally ascend the revered Olubadan throne.

Speaking at a press briefing held at the Olubadan Palace on Saturday, the Oyo State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Ademola Ojo, said activities would commence on Monday, September 22, with interfaith prayers, cultural displays, and a coronation lecture to be delivered by renowned historian, Professor Toyin Falola.

Ojo assured that security arrangements were robust, revealing that over 2,000 operatives from the Nigeria Police, Department of State Services (DSS), Amotekun Corps, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) had been mobilised to ensure a peaceful celebration.

Chief Bayo Oyero, Chairman of the Coronation Committee, hailed the Ibadan chieftaincy succession model as a “remarkable democratic tradition” that has guaranteed peace and stability across generations.

He commended Governor Seyi Makinde for providing institutional and logistical support to make the event a success.

According to him, the coronation will be broadcast live on national television and streamed globally, allowing Nigerians at home and in the diaspora to witness what he described as “a defining moment in Yoruba history.”

Oyero further disclosed that the celebrations would include a cultural fiesta, praise worship to mark Ladoja’s 81st birthday, and a thanksgiving service, all of which would underscore Ibadan’s inclusive and interfaith heritage.

“The Olubadan stool symbolises unity, cultural pride, and resilience. This coronation will be a reflection of those values and a renewed affirmation of Ibadan’s place in Nigeria’s history,” he said.

Ladoja’s journey to the throne has been shaped by decades of public service and private enterprise. An engineer, successful businessman, senator, and former governor of Oyo State, his wealth of experience is seen as an asset to the throne he is about to ascend.

Organisers have extended invitations to Ibadan sons and daughters, Nigerians nationwide, and international friends to partake in the celebration, which they described as not just an Ibadan affair but a moment of pride for Yorubaland and Africa.