President Bola Ahmed Tinubu arrived in Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State, on Friday to attend the coronation ceremony of Senator Rashidi Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland. The President’s jet landed at Ibadan Airport at 1:45 p.m., where he was received by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, alongside other high-ranking government officials, traditional rulers, and members of the Olubadan-in-Council.
The President’s convoy then proceeded to Mapo Hall, the venue of the coronation ceremony, where a large crowd of residents, political leaders, and well-wishers had gathered to witness the event. Senator Ladoja, a former governor of Oyo State, was ascending to the throne following the passing of Oba Owolabi Olakulehin on July 7, 2025.
The coronation of a new Olubadan is a significant event in the cultural and traditional calendar of Ibadanland. The Olubadan is the paramount ruler of Ibadan, and the ceremony marks the beginning of a new era in the city’s traditional leadership. Senator Ladoja’s ascension to the throne is expected to bring stability and continuity to the traditional institution.
The attendance of President Tinubu at the ceremony underscores the importance of the event and the federal government’s recognition of the significance of traditional institutions in Nigeria. The President’s presence is also seen as a gesture of respect for the cultural heritage of Ibadanland and the people of Oyo State.
As the new Olubadan, Senator Ladoja is expected to play a key role in promoting the cultural and economic development of Ibadanland. The coronation ceremony is a celebration of the city’s rich cultural heritage and an opportunity for the people of Ibadan to come together and witness the transition of power to a new traditional leader. With the ceremony now concluded, Senator Ladoja is set to begin his reign as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, marking a new chapter in the history of the city.
