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Tag: Olubadan

  • FASON leaders pay homage to Olubadan, Alaafin

    FASON leaders pay homage to Olubadan, Alaafin

    Leaders of the Federation of Ahlus-Sunnah Organizations in Nigeria (FASON) on Sunday paid royal homage to the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja, and the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade.

    The delegation, led by FASON National Amir Sheikh Tajudeen Abdul Kareem Al Adabiyy, included the West Africa President of JIBWIS Dr. Abdullahi Bala Lau, National Vice President of the Supreme Council for Shari’a in Nigeria Sheikh Isa Solahudeen Akindele, and other prominent Islamic scholars.

    They were joined by traditional rulers such as Oba Abdul Azeez Olatubosun Adebanji, the Akire of Ikire Ile, and Oba Qazeem Ilufemiloye I, the Olowu of Owu Ile, alongside academics including Professor Mutiullah Olasupo of the University of Abuja.

    Sheikh Al Adabiyy said the visit was to offer prayers for the monarchs’ long life and successful reigns. Akindele, in his remarks, also appealed to the Olubadan to help curb land-grabbing challenges in Ibadanland.

     “We pray to Almighty God to grant you a long time and good health. We pray to God to give you the wisdom to direct the affairs successfully.

    He said, “God will allow you to implement the good visions you have for this city and Nigeria in general. Many things that are not good are happening in the city, such as land grabbing. You have said that you will tackle these problems, God will give you the wisdom to do it”.

    READ ALSO: 2027: ex-President Jonathan just one of our options, says PDP

    During the visit to the Alaafin, Sheik Al Adabiyy informed that the visit became necessary to pray for the traditional rulers.

    While in Oyo, the group was received by the Khadeemul Musleemuun of Oyo Kingdom, Sheikh Daud Tijani Igi Ogun, and Aare Musulumi of Oyo, Alhaji Kamarise, in a brief but colourful reception at the JIBWIS group of school, a multilingual event anchored by Sheikh Tajudeen Imam of Prince and Princess Central Mosque, Abuja.

    Sheik Al Adabiyy, while speaking, said, “We have come from different parts of the country; we have people who came from Abuja and other parts of the country here. The purpose of the visits is to pray for you for a long life and a successful reign

    “We are here to greet you, we are here to pray for you. We have been doing it when you were not there, we are now doing it in your presence. What we want is for God to grant you a long life”.

    The Olubadan and the Alaafin, in their separate remarks, said that they were happy to receive the leaders of the Islamic organisation.

    They thanked the organisation for the visit.

    They urged them to continue in their prayers to promote peaceful coexistence in the country.

  • Atiku, El-Rufai, Ayu, others visit Olubadan

    Atiku, El-Rufai, Ayu, others visit Olubadan

    Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, ex-Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, and the former PDP National Chairman, Iyorcha Ayu, on Tuesday visited the Bodija residence of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja.

    The delegation, which arrived around 12:20 p.m., was warmly received by the monarch, who personally led them into his inner chamber.

    READ ALSO: 2027: ex-President Jonathan just one of our options, says PDP

    Their visit came days after they were absent from the coronation ceremony of the Olubadan, held last Friday.

    They said they were at the palace to formally congratulate the new monarch.

    Details shortly…

  • I will serve Ibadan people with rest of my life – Olubadan

    I will serve Ibadan people with rest of my life – Olubadan

    The new Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, has vowed to dedicate the rest of his life to serving Ibadanland and its people.

    Speaking at a thanksgiving service held at the Church of the Ascension, Bodija, following his coronation as the 44th Olubadan, Oba Ladoja described his role as a leadership position focused on ensuring peace and development in the ancient city.

    Oba Ladoja, a former senator and governor of Oyo State, was formally presented with the Staff and Instrument of Office by Governor Seyi Makinde at the historic Mapo Hall, Ibadan.

    Reassuring the people of his commitment, the monarch said, “We are all governing Ibadan, I’m just the coordinator. You people are the small Olubadan, I’m the big Olubadan. Ibadan will be great by God’s grace with your support. I’m now king of all religions, Ibadan is a fertile land, it shall continue to be well with Ibadan.”

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    He pledged to work with governments at all levels to sustain Ibadan’s pace-setter status while thanking residents and well-wishers for their support.

    In his congratulatory message, Archbishop Gabriel Abegunrin of the Catholic Archdiocese of Ibadan described Oba Ladoja’s enthronement as divine providence, praising his strength, wisdom, and humility.

    He noted that beginning his reign with thanksgiving reflected his commitment to fostering interfaith harmony, peace, and progress.

    The Archbishop assured the monarch of the church’s prayers and support, urging him to rule with justice, compassion, and courage.

    The thanksgiving service was attended by the Olubadan-in-Council, members of the royal family, the Iyalode, and well-wishers.

  • Olubadan: Arisekola, Mosadoluwa celebrate Ladoja’s historic ascension

    Olubadan: Arisekola, Mosadoluwa celebrate Ladoja’s historic ascension

    The Chairman of Harmony Garden and Estate Development Ltd, Mogaji Wole Arisekola, and the company’s Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Hon. Dr. Saheed Audullahi Mosadoluwa, have congratulated Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja (Arusa I) on his historic coronation as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.

    In their goodwill messages, both executives described Ladoja’s ascension to the revered throne as a proud and unifying milestone, not only for the ancient city of Ibadan but also for Yorubaland.

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    Arisekola commended the monarch’s leadership qualities, rich political experience, and deep love for his people, noting that his reign would uplift Ibadan and strengthen its traditional institution.

    Mosadoluwa, on his part, hailed Ladoja’s pedigree as a statesman, expressing confidence that his reign would usher in peace, development, and cultural preservation.

    The company’s management also prayed for the monarch’s long life and impactful reign, stressing that his coronation marks a new chapter in Ibadan’s rich heritage and a source of pride for indigenes and Yorubaland at large.

  • Olubadan: Alaafin, Soun, Oluwo, Onpetu, Olugbo, others await Tinubu’s arrival

    Olubadan: Alaafin, Soun, Oluwo, Onpetu, Olugbo, others await Tinubu’s arrival

    …as Ladoja ends traditional rites at Osemeji

    Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade; Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Olaoye Ghandi; Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Rasheed Akanbi; Olugbo of Ugbo, Oba Akinruntan, and other prominent traditional rulers are at Mapo Hall, awaiting President Bola Tinubu for the coronation of Oba Rashidi Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.

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    Oba Ladoja earlier completed the necessary traditional rites at the Osemeji shrine, Oja’ba, under the supervision of the Abore of Ibadanland.

    Meanwhile, Governor Seyi Makinde has led a delegation—including Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, alongside federal and state lawmakers—to Ladoke Akintola International Airport to receive President Tinubu.

  • Ibadan royals, top celebrities to grace Olubadan’s coronation after-party at The Patio

    Ibadan royals, top celebrities to grace Olubadan’s coronation after-party at The Patio

    As part of the grand finale of the weeklong coronation events for the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, The Patio, Bashorun, will host the official coronation after party on Friday, September 26, 2025.

    In a statement released by the organisers, the celebration was described as an evening designed to blend Ibadan’s rich cultural heritage with modern elegance.

    “History is being made and we are celebrating in style. On Friday we are witnessing the crown of our new Olubadan, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, a moment that will echo through the ages. And where better to celebrate this historic milestone than at The Patio, where luxury meets fashion,” the statement read.

    The official after party will serve as the closing highlight of a week of colourful activities that began with traditional rites and prayers, cultural displays, and a coronation lecture delivered by renowned historian, Prof. Toyin Falola, at the University of Ibadan. The main enthronement ceremony itself is scheduled to take place earlier in the day at Mapo Hall, Ibadan, amid tight security and nationwide attention.

    The coronation after party at The Patio is expected to draw a star-studded crowd, including political leaders, business moguls, cultural icons, and celebrities. Entertainment figures and prominent Ibadan indigenes in the diaspora are also expected to grace the after-party.

    The organisers hinted that guests should expect a blend of traditional music, highlife, and contemporary performances, reflecting both the prestige of Ibadan’s throne and the vibrancy of its people.

    The Patio, known for its luxury ambience and style, is positioning the event as a once-in-a-generation celebration, closing a historic chapter in Ibadan’s cultural and political life with glamour.

  • Olubadan: Mapo Hall comes alive as preparations peak for Ladoja’s coronation

    Olubadan: Mapo Hall comes alive as preparations peak for Ladoja’s coronation

    Preparations are in top gear for the coronation of the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, as the ancient city comes alive with activities ahead of the celebrations.

    From major markets to neighbourhoods, residents have expressed excitement, describing the occasion as a historic moment in Ibadan’s cultural calendar.

    The city is already buzzing with anticipation, as colourful decorations, banners, and billboards adorn strategic locations, while traditional drummers and cultural groups prepare to add glamour to the festivities.

    Traffic has been heavy in several parts of the metropolis due to road diversions and preparations, with security operatives and traffic officers deployed to ensure orderliness.

    At the coronation venue, workers were seen perfecting stage and tent setups, while local and national media outfits, including radio and television stations, had begun positioning for live coverage of the historic event.

    Security presence is tight, with operatives from the Army, DSS, NSCDC, Police, FRSC, OYRTMA, and Amotekun Corps stationed around the venue and adjoining streets to ensure safety.

    The 44th coronation anniversary of the Olubadan is expected to draw dignitaries from across Nigeria and beyond, including traditional rulers, political leaders, and cultural enthusiasts.

  • Olubadan: Police beef up security in Ibadan ahead of Ladoja’s coronation, Tinubu’s visit

    Olubadan: Police beef up security in Ibadan ahead of Ladoja’s coronation, Tinubu’s visit

    The Oyo State Police Command has announced extensive security measures ahead of the coronation of former Oyo State governor, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, scheduled for Friday, September 26.

    The historic event, set to hold at Mapo Hall, is expected to attract dignitaries, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso, ministers, governors, and other prominent guests.

    Police spokesman Adewale Osifeso said the Command, working in collaboration with sister security agencies, has finalized strategies to ensure a safe and peaceful ceremony.

    According to him, the measures include confidence-building patrols, intensified surveillance, and intelligence-driven stop-and-search operations across Oyo State. He added that special attention will be given to all entry and exit points, particularly routes leading to the coronation venue.

    Read Also: Olubadan: Your reign will usher in economic prosperity, Lagelu ICAN congratulates Ladoja

    “This includes public parks, train stations, and the Samuel Ladoke Akintola International Airport in Ibadan.

    “The organizing committee, designated by the Oyo State Government, has officially communicated the impending closure of certain routes surrounding the historic Mapo Hall on the day of the coronation, starting from 7:00 AM on Friday.

    “In light of these alterations, the Oyo State Police Command advises the public to adjust their movement plans accordingly and to consider alternative routes to mitigate potential disruptions.

    “Furthermore, the Command issues a stern warning against any forms of public disorder, including unauthorized processions and movements within the metropolis before, during, and after the event.

    “In prioritising the safety of individuals and property during this celebration, the Oyo State Police Command implores the collaboration of the public in adhering to all directives and in fostering a peaceful atmosphere throughout this momentous occasion.

    “Additionally, the general public is encouraged to report any suspicious activities or concerns to their nearest police station or to utilize the designated emergency contact numbers provided by the police.”

    He, however, said that Oyo State Police Command anticipates a successful coronation that not only honours tradition but also showcases Ibadan’s rich cultural heritage.

  • Ibori felicitates Ladoja on 81st birthday, Olubadan coronation

    Ibori felicitates Ladoja on 81st birthday, Olubadan coronation

    Former Delta State Governor, Chief James Onanefe Ibori, has extended warm felicitations to the Olubadan-designate, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, on the occasion of his 81st birthday, which comes up on Thursday.

    In a statement personally signed, Ibori also congratulated Ladoja on his installation as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, scheduled to hold in the ancient city of Ibadan, Oyo State, on Friday, September 26.

    Describing Ladoja’s life as one of grace divinely orchestrated by God for the service of humanity, Ibori noted that the former Oyo State governor remained a man of principle and unwavering dedication to justice.

    “On behalf of my family, I congratulate His Excellency, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, on the auspicious occasion of his 81st birthday as well as his coronation as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland,” Ibori stated.

    Read Also: Emergence of Ladoja will modernise Ibadan – Prof Falola

    “Ladoja’s story is that of a man favoured by God. A highly principled statesman, he is a dogged fighter for justice, equity and fairness. In all his political travails, he was patient but resolute in his determination to prevail. His coronation is a reminder of his commitment to the truth in the sacred tradition and process.”

    Ibori prayed that Oba Ladoja’s reign would usher in peace, progress, and development—not only for Ibadanland, but also for the entire South-West and Nigeria as a whole.

  • Olubadan: Presidency advance team arrives Ibadan ahead of Ladoja’s coronation

    Olubadan: Presidency advance team arrives Ibadan ahead of Ladoja’s coronation

    There are indications that President Bola Tinubu will be in Ibadan on Friday for the coronation of Oba Rashidi Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.

    An advance team from the Presidency landed at the newly upgraded Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport at exactly 9:14 a.m., drawing excitement from those present.

    The flight, which preceded the President’s expected arrival on Friday, September 26, 2025, marked the airport’s first operation since its closure in March for an upgrade to international standards.

    The successful landing highlighted the airport’s readiness to handle high-profile flights, setting a positive precedent for future arrivals and departures.

    Recall that Oyo State governor, Seyi Makinde, had in September 2024, performed the ground-breaking ceremony for the airport upgrade.

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    Makinde had said at the event that the project, when completed, would connect the state to the global market.

    The governor had also noted that, “The upgrade of the airport is expected to enhance air travel operations and provide a reliable transportation network for both business and leisure travelers, positioning the state for economic growth and development.”

    Earlier, the Makinde administration had upgraded the airport’s VIP lounge and provided a fire truck.

    It also installed a 500,000-litre aviation fuel storage and dispensing facility.