Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, on Friday formally presented the staff and certificate of office to Oba Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja, officially confirming him as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.
The historic coronation ceremony, held at Mapo Hall, Ibadan, began at exactly 3:05 p.m. and drew a colourful gathering of traditional rulers, politicians, and dignitaries, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, underscoring the cultural and political significance of the occasion.
Governor Makinde, while addressing the audience, described the moment as monumental: “This is a momentous occasion in the presence of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in the presence of people, and in the presence of God. In exercise of the power conferred on me as the Governor, I hereby present the staff of office to Oba, His Imperial Majesty, Senator, Governor, Engineer, my Baba, His Imperial Majesty, Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja, Arusa 1st. This is in confirmation as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland. I am so present.”
The presentation of the staff and certificate of office symbolises both tradition and continuity in Ibadan’s monarchy, marking the final step in legitimising Oba Ladoja’s ascension.
This coronation is particularly historic, as it brings a former Oyo State governor into a revered royal role, merging political experience with traditional leadership at a time when community influence and governance remain deeply interconnected.
