Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja Arusa I, the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, on Tuesday, September 31, 2025, declared that he is no longer a politician as he welcomed former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and a delegation of political associates who paid him a congratulatory visit over his recent coronation.
The delegation led by Atiku Abubakar comprises members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), a coalition formed to oust President Bola Ahmed Tinubu from office.
“You are welcome. My dear friend from the time of DPA, for the governor of Kaduna State, Alhaji Nasir El-Rufai, God has brought us together again. Even though I am not one of you again. I am not a politician again.” Oba Ladoja said while receiving the delegation at his palace in Ibadan.
Atiku, who led the high-powered delegation, was accompanied by prominent political figures, including former Senate President Sen. Iyorchia Ayu, former Cross River State Governor Mr. Liyel Imoke, former Kaduna State Governor Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, Mallam Adamu Maina Waziri, and Mallam Kashim Imam.
Speaking during the visit, the former vice president congratulated the monarch on his ascension and prayed for a peaceful and prosperous reign.
“I wish you a very long, happy reign as Olubadan. Please accept our apology for our inability to attend your inauguration. Certainly not due to our own making, but God has made it that way. The protocol and logistics were such that we couldn’t meet up, and therefore, we had to abort that visit,” Atiku said.
“We are family, friends, and associates all over the country. We want to thank God for sparing our lives to witness this moment and your ascension to the position of Olubadan,” he added.
The delegation’s visit was part of ongoing felicitations and homage to Oba Ladoja following his enthronement as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, a historic traditional stool in southwestern Nigeria.
