The newly installed Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has assured the people of the ancient city that his reign will serve everyone, regardless of status, faith, or background.
The monarch gave the assurance on Sunday during a thanksgiving service at the Church of the Ascension, Bodija, Ibadan, held in honour of his coronation.
Oba Ladoja, a former governor of Oyo State, officially became the 44th Olubadan on Friday, when Governor Seyi Makinde presented him with the staff and instrument of office at the historic Mapo Hall. The event was attended by President Bola Tinubu and several dignitaries. His installation followed the passing of the 43rd Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, on July 7, 2025, at the age of 90.
In his address, Oba Ladoja pledged lifelong service to Ibadan, emphasizing unity and shared responsibility in governance.
“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,” he declared.
He stressed that his primary concern is ensuring peace and progress in Ibadan, noting that the success of his reign would be a collective achievement involving the Olubadan-in-Council and all residents of the city.
At the service, Most Rev. Gabriel Abegunrin, Archbishop of the Catholic Archdiocese of Ibadan, congratulated the monarch, describing his enthronement as “an act of divine providence.”
“Oba Ladoja’s longevity is a crown of grace, and his enthronement is a divine mandate entrusted to the peace, unity, and progress of the Ibadan people,” the cleric said.
He prayed for God’s blessings, wisdom, health, and guidance for the Olubadan to rule with justice, compassion, and courage.
