Drama meets History: ‘Arusa’ welcomes 44th Olubadan

Theatre enthusiasts, indigenes, and guests gathered at the Apex Event Centre, Agodi, Ibadan, yesterday, for the performance of Arusa, a play celebrating Ibadan’s royal heritage as part of the coronation ceremonies of former Oyo State Governor, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.

The former governor is set to be crowned Olubadan of Ibadanland on Friday, September 26, a day after his 81st birthday, at the historic Mapo Hall in Ibadan South East Local Government Area.

He became Olubadan-designate following the death of the 43rd Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who passed away on Monday, July 7, 2025.

The play, which was written by Gbemi Faleti, produced by Biodun Latinwo Eleni, and directed by veteran theatre practitioner Yomi Duro-Ladipo, was part of an extensive eight-day programme of events marking Oba Ladoja’s coronation.

Producer Latinwo explained that Arusa was initially conceived as a tribute to Ladoja’s 80th birthday but was later incorporated into the coronation schedule.

“When I first contacted Faleti and then Duro-Ladipo, our intention was to stage Arusa as a birthday honour for my father and benefactor, Kabiyesi.

But when we realised Kabiyesi preferred a quiet celebration, the plan was shelved, only to be revived with news of his coronation. Today, Arusa has found its rightful place as part of Ibadan’s historic moment,” he said.

He added that the play reflects Ladoja’s journey through trials and triumphs, transitioning from business to politics while honouring his ancestry.

Latinwo also credited Baba Ojerinde Onibudo for providing the oral history that shaped the foundation of the script.

Writer and associate producer Gbemi Faleti noted the challenge went beyond chronicling an ancient forebear.

He stated that while writing, he realised focusing solely on Arusa Ogungbenro would not capture Ladoja’s essence and it propelled him to weave the stories of two figures—the ancient Arusa and the modern-day Arusa—into a single narrative. This approach allowed the play to transcend time, emphasising resilience, leadership, and destiny across generations while celebrating Ibadan’s enduring heritage.

Faleti described the creative process as rigorous, involving weeks of rehearsals with the director and cast, but ultimately rewarding.

“Arusa is more than a play. It is a cultural statement, a tribute to heritage, and a celebration of leadership. It entertains but also inspires reflection on Ibadan’s greatness and its sons’ legacy,” he said.

The play dramatises the life of Arusa Ogungbenro, legendary progenitor of Ladoja. Traditionally, a chosen carrier of the deity Orisa Aabonabon, known as the Arusa, receives wealth and privileges from the Baale but dies within a year, trapped in a fatal cycle of sacrifice.

The production features a star-studded cast, including Dele Odule, Taiwo Ibikunle, Taofeek Adewale (Diaboluja), Toyin Adegbola, Akeem Alimi (Ajala Jalingo), Gbemi Faleti, Ayo Williams, and Kayode Olaiya (Aderupoko), among others.

Activities marking Ladoja’s coronation began on Monday with an interdenominational prayer at Olubadan Palace, Oke-Aremo, in Ibadan North Local Government Area.