Ibadan, the sprawling ancient city, was yesterday engulfed in pomp and pageantry as indigenes and well-wishers prepared for the coronation of former Oyo State governor, Senator Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.
The grand installation, scheduled for today at the historic Mapo Hall, has turned the city into a beehive of activity, with cultural troupes, political leaders, religious figures and residents pouring in from far and near to witness what many describe as “a historic rebirth in Ibadan’s traditional institution.”
At Ibadan House, Oke Aremo, clerics and community leaders gathered yesterday to offer special prayers for the monarch, who clocks 81 today.
Among those in attendance were the President-General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Chief Ajeniyi Ajewole, President of Ibadan Mogajis, Mogaji Asimiyu Ariori, Senator Sharafadeen Ali, Senator Teslim Folarin, Chief Imam of Ibadanland, Sheikh Abubakar Agbotomokekere, and the Chief Imam of Ogbomoso, Imam Taliat Ayilara.
While Oba Ladoja was absent, one of his children read a brief biography to the admiration of guests. The clerics prayed for a peaceful and prosperous reign, describing his ascension as a divine gift to Ibadanland.
The Oyo State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), in a goodwill message signed by its chairman, Apostle Joshua Akinyemiju, hailed the former governor’s leadership qualities, stressing that his enthronement would usher in peace, development and unity in the ancient city.
Across the metropolis, the excitement was palpable. Markets, streets and neighbourhoods wore festive looks with colourful banners and decorations announcing the coronation. Traditional drummers rehearsed while cultural groups warmed up to add spectacle to the occasion.
Traffic gridlock was visible on major roads as residents and visitors thronged the city centre. Security operatives, including the army, police, DSS, NSCDC, FRSC, Amotekun Corps and OYRTMA, mounted strategic points to maintain order.
Both local and national broadcast media outlets have already taken positions for live coverage. Outside broadcast vans from BCOS, Channels TV, Arise and TVC were spotted at Mapo Hall on Thursday evening.
Governor Seyi Makinde, who had been on annual leave since August 29, yesterday notified the state assembly of his early resumption of duty to oversee and participate in the coronation.
In his letter read on the floor of the House by Deputy Speaker Muhammad Fadeyi, the governor said:
“I deemed it necessary to cut short my vacation and resume duty because of the historic and culturally significant coronation of the new Olubadan.”
The assembly, presided over in plenary by Fadeyi, applauded the governor’s decision, describing it as an act of leadership and respect for Ibadan’s heritage.
As of last night, workers were still fine-tuning decorations and erecting tents at Mapo Hall. Despite threatening rain, artisans and cultural enthusiasts toiled into the night to ensure the venue reflects the grandeur of the occasion.
Today’s coronation is expected to draw dignitaries from across Nigeria and beyond, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, governors, lawmakers, traditional rulers and captains of industry.
For many indigenes, Ladoja’s enthronement marks not just a personal triumph after decades of political and public service, but also a defining moment for Ibadan’s unity and cultural renewal.
