My ascension was by divine Intervention, not money influence – Olubadan

The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has stated that his emergence as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland was a result of divine intervention rather than financial influence.

The monarch made this known on Tuesday while hosting the Belgian Ambassador to Nigeria, Peter Leenknegt, at the Olubadan Palace in Oke-Aremo, Ibadan North Local Government Area of Oyo State.

Oba Ladoja emphasized that his primary duty as the Olubadan is to protect all residents of the ancient city regardless of their ethnic, political, or religious backgrounds.

“My ascension to the throne of Ibadanland is divine. It is not the Ifa oracle that chooses an Oba for Ibadan, nor is it money that determines the selection. It is long life granted by God,” he said. “Our duty as traditional rulers today has evolved. We are now expected to provide leadership and support that fosters peace and development in our communities.”

The monarch also highlighted the importance of addressing youth unemployment and drug abuse, noting that peace cannot thrive without tackling poverty and social instability.

“One of our key responsibilities is to ensure peace in Ibadanland. But peace cannot exist without ‘stomach infrastructure.’ When the youth are gainfully engaged and well catered for, the menace of drug addiction threatening the foundation of our city will be reduced,” he added.

Oba Ladoja appreciated the Belgian government for its willingness to collaborate with Ibadanland in areas such as agriculture and investment.

“Ibadan has vast agricultural lands and mineral resources, and we are open to partnerships that will transform the city and sustain our status as the Pacesetter,” he said.

In response, Ambassador Leenknegt revealed that cocoa had overtaken crude oil as Nigeria’s main export to Belgium, adding that the development would boost farmers’ income and diversify economic relations between both countries.

“Since 2024, cocoa has become Nigeria’s leading export to Belgium. This is a good sign for Nigerian farmers, as it means improved livelihoods and stronger commercial ties between our two nations,” Leenknegt said.

In a related visit, Oba Ladoja received the Olofin of Isheri, Lagos, Oba Ibrahim Bello, where he called on traditional rulers to lead by example and restore discipline within the traditional institution.

Bello, in his remarks, commended the Olubadan for his leadership qualities and prayed for his continued good health and long life.

Dignitaries at the event included members of the Olubadan Advisory Council and other traditional title holders.