Presents Instruments of Office to HIM , Oba Rashidi Ladoja
Oyo State Governor , Engr. Seyi Makinde has called on residents and stakeholders in Ibadan to rally behind the new monarch, His Imperial Majesty , Oba Senator Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, Arusa 1, saying that unity among the people of the ancient city will fast-track the city’s socio-economic growth.
The governor made the call on Friday at the coronation ceremony of the former governor of Oyo state , Oba Senator Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland held the Mapo Hall , Ibadan .
Presenting the staff and instruments of office to the newly installed monarch, Governor Makinde pledged the full support of his administration to the Olubadan in delivering on his responsibilities.
“This occasion is a reminder of our rich heritage and the stability of our traditional institution. Kabiyesi Ladoja is a symbol of continuity and progress.”
“The Oyo State Government will stand firmly behind him in promoting peace and development across Ibadanland,” Makinde said.
In his acceptance speech, Oba Rashidi Ladoja highlighted the need for renewed commitment to Ibadan’s development . He also used the platform to make a passionate appeal for the creation of Ibadan State out of the present Oyo State for accelerated development.
Addressing issues of social concern, the Olubadan vowed to tackle the menace of street urchins (popularly known as area boys) within the city.
“We are irrevocably committed to reducing the cases of area boys in Ibadan. Soon, we shall launch a multi-billion Naira Economic Development Programme to revive companies that once thrived here and create jobs for our youths.”
Reflecting on his long journey to the throne, the monarch described it as a divine journey, not driven by power or wealth, but by destiny.
“It is not by power, influence, connection, or money that we are where we are today. I thank God for guiding me from the starting line as Mogaji in 1992 to this point.”
He pledged to be a father to all, irrespective of religion, tribe, or political affiliation, and called on all arms of traditional leadership in Ibadan to join hands in ensuring peace and development.
“As Olubadan of Ibadanland, I pledge to promote peace, love, and unity among our diverse peoples. I shall not do it alone, I have the full backing of the Olubadan-in-Council, our local chiefs, and titleholders,” he added.
The coronation event was graced by Senator Ademola Adeleke of Osun State, Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, and Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi, among others. Traditional rulers like the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III, Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi represented by Olori Ashley Ogunwusi and His Royal Highness Obalufe of Ife, Oba Adediwura, the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, Soun of Ogbomosho, His Imperial Majesty Oba Ghandi Olaoye and the Oluwo of Iwo.
