The ancient city of Ibadan, Oyo State, has welcomed an array of traditional rulers and dignitaries as preparations peak for the coronation of Oba Rasheed Adewolu Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.
The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III, was among the high-profile figures who arrived in the city for the ceremony. He was received by Oyo State Commissioner for Works, Alhaji Mojeed Mogbonjubola, alongside senior government officials and representatives of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs.
The Sultan was accompanied by traditional aides, Muslim leaders, and dignitaries from Sokoto. Other royal fathers already at Mapo Hall, the venue of the coronation, include the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade; the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Adeoye; the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrasheed Adewale; and the Olugbo of Ugbo Kingdom, Oba Fredrick Obateru Akinruntan.
Earlier, former Ogun State governors, Senator Ibikunle Amosun and Otunba Gbenga Daniel, were among the first set of political leaders to arrive in Ibadan for the historic event. The coronation of Oba Ladoja is being described as a landmark occasion in the cultural calendar of Ibadan, attracting leading monarchs, political figures, and residents eager to witness the installation of the city’s 44th traditional ruler.
The coronation ceremony is expected to draw dignitaries from across the country, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Security is tight, with personnel from the Nigeria Police Force, Nigerian Army, NSCDC, and local vigilante groups deployed across strategic points to ensure order and safety throughout the event.
Residents of Ibadan have expressed excitement, describing the occasion as a historic moment in the city’s cultural calendar. The event is expected to showcase Ibadan’s rich cultural heritage, with traditional dances, music, and colorful attire.
The coronation of Oba Ladoja marks a new chapter in Ibadan’s history, with expectations high that his reign will bring progress, unity, and renewed pride to the ancient city.
