Activities for the coronation of Oba Rashidi Ladoja, as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, commenced on Monday, with an interdenominational prayer session held at the Olubadan Palace, Oke-Aremo, Ibadan.
The event brought together key members of the Olubadan-in-Council, religious leaders, and well-wishers, setting the tone for what many have described as a historic and unifying moment for Ibadanland.
Among the dignitaries in attendance were Kola Adegbola (Otun Olubadan), Dauda Abiodun Azeez (Asipa Olubadan), and Oba Adebayo Akande (Ekaarun Olubadan), among others.
Prayers and blessings were offered across religious lines, with Bible readings, Qur’an recitations, and traditional Iyere Ifa chants woven into a rich tapestry of spiritual invocation. The gathering also included prayers for Governor Seyi Makinde and for a peaceful and prosperous reign for the incoming monarch.
Also, religious leaders took turns to bless the new chapter unfolding in Ibadan’s royal history.
Prelate Sunday Olamakinde of the Christian Association of Nigeria urged the new Olubadan to be a symbol of unity among the city’s diverse faith communities, while the Chief Imam of Ibadanland, Sheikh Abubakar Agbotomokekere, predicted that Ladoja’s reign would usher in “unprecedented peace and stability” in Ibadanland.
President General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Ajeniyi Ajewole, while describing the occasion as historic, noted that Ladoja’s ascension marks the first time a former senator and state governor would ascend the Olubadan’s throne, adding that it is an achievement that reflects both his public service and deep cultural heritage.
