It was a moment of joy and deep reflection on Friday as prominent figures in Ibadanland expressed delight over the coronation of Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, Arusa I, as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.
Among those who shared their heartfelt reactions was Olori Rashidat Adetunji, widow of the late 41st Olubadan, Oba Saliu Adetunji.
She revealed that the ascension of Oba Ladoja fulfilled a heartfelt prayer her late husband once offered for him.
“I am happy that I witnessed this coronation. I thank God that the prayer of my husband, Oba Adetunji, that Ladoja would one day become a king has come to pass,”
she said. “What happened was that Ladoja used to respect my husband a lot when he was the Olubadan. One day, Oba Adetunji wondered what he could do for him, and he concluded to pray that he would become Olubadan one day. We thank God for answering that prayer. Ladoja is a good man.”
Olori Rashidat also shed light on why her late husband opposed the creation of “lesser kings” in Ibadanland, stating that he was determined to preserve the age-long traditional structure.
“When Governor Ajimobi visited him and said he wanted to create lesser Obas, Oba Adetunji begged him not to destroy the tradition,” she recalled.
In a similar vein, Oloye Hamsat Eleruwere, the Ekefa Balogun of Ibadanland, lauded Oba Ladoja’s character and leadership qualities, describing him as a principled man.
“I am very happy about Ladoja’s emergence as the new Olubadan. He is a good man and a worthy son of Ibadan. He is very strict and highly principled,” Eleruwere said.
Also speaking, Chief Dr. Ayo Ajia Monsurat, the Ajia Iyalode of Ibadanland, expressed optimism that Ladoja’s reign would bring greater development and unity to the city.
“I am really happy. Ladoja is a strong man who loves everyone. We pray that during his time, Ibadan will have its own state,” she added.
The coronation of Oba Ladoja, a former governor of Oyo State and respected statesman, marks a new chapter in the history of Ibadanland, with many citizens hopeful that his reign will further strengthen the city’s cultural heritage and political influence.
