The ancient city of Ibadan is agog with celebrations as preparations reach their peak for the coronation of former Oyo State Governor, Senator Rashidi Ladoja, as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland. The historic event is scheduled to hold today at Mapo Hall, with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, state governors, royal fathers, and eminent Nigerians expected in attendance.
Ahead of the coronation, religious leaders and residents gathered at Ibadan House, Oke Aremo, yesterday to offer prayers for Oba Ladoja, who also turns 81 today. The session, attended by top clerics including the Chief Imam of Ibadanland, Sheik Abubakar Agbotomokekere, and the Chief Imam of Ogbomosho, Imam Taliat Ayilara, featured prayers, music, and cultural performances.
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Oyo State chapter, also felicitated the new monarch, describing him as a leader whose reign will bring peace, prosperity, and development to Ibadan.
Across the metropolis, the atmosphere is festive, with colourful decorations, banners, and traditional drummers setting the tone for the historic occasion. Security agencies including the Nigerian Army, DSS, NSCDC, Police, and Amotekun have been deployed to maintain order, while traffic officers manage diversions around Mapo Hall.
Broadcast stations such as BCOS, Channels TV, TVC, and Arise News are already on ground for live coverage.
Governor Seyi Makinde has cut short his annual leave to personally attend and oversee the coronation, describing it as a “culturally significant moment” for the state. His resumption notice was formally acknowledged by the Oyo State House of Assembly yesterday.
Dignitaries from within and outside Nigeria are expected at the ceremony, which residents say reaffirms Ibadan’s cultural pride and heritage.
