The Ajia-Balogun of Ibadanland, Adenrele Lekan-Salami Oyetunde, has joined indigenes of Ibadan, Yorubaland, and Nigerians at large in celebrating the coronation of His Imperial Majesty, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.
In a statement made available to journalists, Lekan Salami described the enthronement of the former governor as a historic milestone for Ibadan, noting that the city’s rich traditions and heritage had entered a new era of leadership, wisdom, and collective progress.
“This moment is a defining chapter in the history of Ibadan, a city renowned for its courage, culture, and deep-rooted traditions,” he said.
“The enthronement of Kabiyesi is not just a fulfillment of heritage but also a call to a new season of wisdom, leadership, and collective progress for our people.”
Highlighting the unique place of Oba Ladoja in Nigeria’s history, the Ajia-Balogun emphasized that the monarch would be remembered as the first Governor of Oyo State to ascend the throne of Olubadan.
He praised Oba Ladoja’s career trajectory, recalling his achievements as a businessman, investor, and politician.
According to him, Ladoja’s foresight, discipline, and innovation as a businessman, coupled with his courage and clarity as a Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, distinguished him as a leader committed to the welfare of the people.
“As Governor of Oyo State between 2003 and 2007, Oba Ladoja left indelible footprints of people-focused governance. His administration prioritized education, infrastructure, and human capacity development, ensuring Ibadan and Oyo State continued to thrive as centers of learning, commerce, and culture,” he added.
Salami expressed optimism that the new Olubadan’s reign would inspire unity, foster peace, and further elevate Ibadan as a pride of Yorubaland and Nigeria.
“Now ascending the revered throne of his forefathers as the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Kabiyesi brings with him decades of experience, wisdom, and a track record of service that will no doubt strengthen the cultural and social fabric of our city,” he noted.
On behalf of his family and the larger Oba Oyetunde family, the Ajia-Balogun offered prayers for Oba Ladoja’s reign to be long, prosperous, and guided by divine wisdom.
“May his reign be long, prosperous, and guided by divine wisdom and very good health. Kabiyesi o! K’ade pe lori, ki bata pe lese, ki irukere di alagbara,” he concluded.
