Ibadan LG chairmen pay homage to Olubadan-designate Oba Ladoja, pledge total support
The Chairmen of the eleven Local Governments that make up Ibadanland on Friday paid homage to the Olubadan-designate, His Royal Majesty, Oba Rasheed Adewolu Ladoja, assuring him of their unflinching loyalty and support ahead of his coronation.
The delegation, led by the Chairman of the Oyo State chapter of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Hon. Sikiru Sanda Lajue, visited the former governor of Oyo State at his Ibadan residence.
The visit was part of a series of goodwill gestures being extended to the monarch-in-waiting ahead of his official coronation slated for September 26, 2025.
Speaking during the visit, Hon. Sanda described the meeting as both historic and symbolic, noting that it reflected the unity and respect which Ibadan people accord their traditional institution.
He emphasized that the Olubadan-in-Council remains one of the most respected traditional systems in Nigeria and beyond, owing largely to its transparent and peaceful succession process.
According to him, the Chairmen had fruitful deliberations with Oba Ladoja and expressed readiness to work closely with him in advancing the growth and stability of Ibadanland.
He further pledged that the eleven Local Government Chairmen would replicate the good governance mantra of Governor Seyi Makinde at the grassroots level in line with the vision of the new monarch.
“As Chairmen, we remain committed to supporting our revered monarch and to working hand in hand with the palace to ensure peace, unity, and the sustainable development of Ibadanland. We also draw inspiration from Governor Seyi Makinde’s governance style, which we intend to reflect in our local administrations,” Sanda stated.
The Chairmen expressed optimism that Oba Ladoja’s reign would herald a new era of stability, cohesion, and infrastructural growth for Ibadan and Oyo State as a whole. They noted that the monarch’s political experience, statesmanship, and deep-rooted commitment to Ibadan culture would be of immense benefit to his people.
They also offered prayers for the monarch’s long life, good health, and a peaceful reign that would surpass those of his predecessors. The leaders further urged all indigenes and residents of Ibadan to rally around the Olubadan-designate in order to consolidate on the rich heritage and traditions of the ancient city.
Oba Rasheed Adewolu Ladoja, a former governor of Oyo State and respected High Chief in the Olubadan chieftaincy line, emerged as Olubadan-designate following the recent passage of his predecessor. His ascension to the throne has been widely welcomed by stakeholders across political, cultural, and religious divides.
The courtesy visit by the Local Government Chairmen is among several engagements being held in the buildup to the coronation ceremony. Already, traditional leaders, community groups, and political stakeholders within and outside Ibadanland have begun extending goodwill messages, underscoring the significance of the Olubadan stool in Yoruba tradition.
As preparations intensify, the people of Ibadan eagerly await September 26, when Oba Ladoja will be formally crowned, marking the beginning of a reign many believe will usher in greater peace, prosperity, and unity for the city and beyond.
