Olubadan: Ladoja’s Coronation Rites Begin with Prayers

The ancient city of Ibadan is witnessing history as the Balogun of Ibadan-designate, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, revealed the peaceful process leading to the coronation of former Oyo State Governor and Olubadan-designate, Oba Rashidi Ladoja. Unlike his predecessor’s emergence, the coronation is expected to be free of rancour and disputes.

Events marking the coronation began on Monday with interdenominational prayers at the Olubadan Palace in Oke-Aremo, located in the Ibadan North Local Government Area of Oyo State. Traditional leaders, clerics, and residents gathered to pray for a peaceful and successful reign.

Among the dignitaries present were:

• Otun Balogun, Oba Kolawole Adegbola
• Ashipa Balogun, Oba Dauda Azeez
• Ekaarun Olubadan, Oba Adebayo Akande
• Representatives of various religious and community groups

Oba Rashidi Ladoja will receive his Staff of Office and the Instrument of Office on Friday, September 26, at a grand ceremony scheduled for Mapo Hall, Ibadan. The event is expected to draw dignitaries from across Nigeria, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other high-ranking officials.

The coronation follows the transition of the 43rd Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who passed away on July 7, 2025, at the age of 90.

Speaking exclusively to The PUNCH, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola shared insights into the smooth process leading to Oba Ladoja’s emergence. He emphasized that the circumstances surrounding Ladoja’s ascension were different from those of his predecessor, Oba Olakulehin.

According to Ajibola:

“In this circumstance, immediately Oba Olakulehin joined his ancestors, Oba Ladoja communicated with us. He phoned me all the time, we talked, and we all knew the next person. So, there is no problem at all. No dispute. It’s destined, and the throne has been created by God.”

He added that Oba Ladoja had resolved the issue of the crown long ago, eliminating potential obstacles to his coronation.

Oba Ajibola highlighted the uniqueness of the Olubadan stool. Ibadan operates a clear line of succession with only two ruling lines—the Otun line and the Balogun line—which prevents disputes over who becomes Olubadan.

“Ibadan is a very big city, it is like a country on its own. We are lucky we don’t have disputes or need an oracle to know who is next.”

During the interdenominational prayers, the President General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Ajeniyi Ajewole, expressed optimism that Oba Ladoja’s reign would usher in peace and development to Ibadanland.

He remarked on the historical significance of a former Senator and Governor becoming Olubadan, calling it a new dawn for the city.

In his sermon, the former Prelate of the Methodist Church Nigeria, Sunday Makinde, urged Oba Ladoja to promote peaceful coexistence among the three major religions in Ibadanland. Similarly, the Chief Imam of Ibadanland, Abdulganiyu Agbotomokekere, prayed for unprecedented peace and development during Ladoja’s reign.

Highlights of the event included:

• Rendition of Iyere Ifa by traditionalists
• Reading of Psalms by Christian clerics
• Reading of the Quran by Muslim faithful

Oba Ajibola commended Oba Ladoja’s political experience, stating that Ibadan would benefit greatly from his leadership:

“If he can combine his political experience with traditional leadership and join hands with the people, Ibadan will be great.”

The Balogun-designate emphasized that everyone in Ibadan is happy with Oba Ladoja’s emergence, describing it as a divine arrangement.

The coronation of Oba Rashidi Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan marks a historic moment for Ibadanland. With prayers for peace, clear succession lines, and widespread support from community leaders, religious groups, and government officials, his reign is poised to bring development and stability to Nigeria’s largest city.

As September 26 approaches, all eyes are on Mapo Hall for the official ceremony, which is set to attract national attention and celebrate Ibadan’s rich tradition of orderly leadership transitions.