Obasanjo writes Olubadan-designate Ladoja ahead of Coronation, advises him on how to rule Ibadan

Obasanjo writes Olubadan-designate Ladoja ahead of Coronation, advises him on how to rule Ibadan

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has extended heartfelt congratulations to Oba Abdul-Rasheed Adewolu Ladoja, the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, ahead of his official coronation set to take place this Friday in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.

In a statement released on Wednesday by his media aide, Kehinde Akinyemi, Obasanjo offered a traditional Yoruba blessing to the incoming monarch: “Ade a pe lori, bata a pe lese” , a prayer wishing the king a long and prosperous reign.

Describing the upcoming coronation as a ceremonial formality, Obasanjo emphasized that Ladoja has already assumed the dignity of the revered throne in the eyes of the people.

Writing from New York, where he is attending the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly, Obasanjo advised the Olubadan-in-waiting to clearly distinguish between traditional leadership and political authority, noting that such discernment is vital for effective rule.

In a congratulatory letter dated July 14, 2025, the former president wrote:
”To lead the people of Ibadan as their traditional ruler is a high and solemn responsibility.

“It demands humility, patience, divine wisdom, tolerance, and openness to advice from diverse perspectives. It is important to understand that traditional leadership complements, but does not compete with, political governance.”

Obasanjo described Oba Ladoja’s rise to the throne as both momentous and meaningful, urging the new monarch to harness unity and wisdom in strengthening the enduring legacy of one of Nigeria’s most influential royal institutions.