On Friday, the ancient city of Ibadan stood still as it played host to eminent personalities home and abroad, traditional rulers and politicians, who gathered to witness the historical inauguration of Oba Rashidi Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.
The august ceremony took place at the The ancient Mapo Hall, amidst celebration on Friday.
Every road leading to Mapo had displayed a vibrant and cultural outlook that reflects the importance and significance of the traditional rulers’ coronation.
Top security arrangements were on ground with heavy presence of various security agents to avoid break down of law and order.
Traditional drums echoed across the venue, with local groups performing chants and dances to showcase the rich cultural heritage of Ibadanland and Yoruba race.
The celebration, described to be the apex of a lifelong journey, is said to be historical in Nigeria, being the first time that a former governor, senator and successful businessman will become imperial majesty.
The presence of high ranking traditional rulers, top politicians, religious leaders and business tycoons from every part of the country symbolised national recognition of Ladoja’s significance beyond Yorubaland.
Ladoja, who turned 81 on Thursday, emerged from the civil line of the Olubadan throne, specifically from the Otun Olubadan position, which is the most senior chief in the civil line.
Ibadan’s unique rotational traditional system permits throne alternation between the civil (Otun) and military (Balogun) lines, a structure which has been carefully maintained for the past 170 years.
Olubadan stool became vacant following the passing of the Oba Owolabi Olakulehin on July 7, at the age of 90 years.
Ladoja was installed as Jagun on Oct.1, 1993 by Oba Yesufu Oloyede-Asanike, after which he embraced each promotion for 32 years with perseverance, commitment and understanding as required by Olubadan chieftaincy system.
He accepted the ceremonial beaded crown in August 2024, a requirement for advancing to Olubadan under the revised Ibadan chieftaincy declaration.
