President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed gratitude to the people of Ibadan for their unwavering support during his presidential bid, while also congratulating Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja on his coronation as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.
Speaking on Friday at the historic coronation ceremony, President Tinubu recalled how Ibadan played a key role in his journey to the presidency, especially during the period when his popular political slogan, “Emi l’okan” — meaning “It is my turn” — resonated across the Southwest and beyond in 2022.
“I greet the people of Ibadan, congratulations on the coronation of your new king. We’ll continue to experience joy, and this God-given happiness will not become a source of sadness. May your children prosper and never shall sadness follow them. Thank you for taking care of me,” Tinubu said.
“I once came to Oke Mopo to seek your support and to tell you ‘Emi lo’kan’ (it’s my turn), and now we are there. Thank you very much.”
A Historic Coronation
Tinubu described Oba Ladoja’s ascension to the throne as a significant moment in Nigeria’s cultural and political history. He praised the new monarch, praying for a long and impactful reign that would strengthen the legacy of the Ibadan traditional institution.
“It’s a great honour for me to be here as the president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to witness your coronation. All the deliberations, expectations, and history that we share together for this country make today a special moment.
It is my prayer that you will live long and be celebrated as one of the rare gems of history to ascend the throne of your forefathers,” the president added.
Tinubu also acknowledged the presence of prominent political leaders and former governors who attended the event, including Donald Duke, Olagunsoye Oyinlola, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, Mallam Ibrahim Shekarau, and Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso.
Governor Makinde: “A Source of Pride for Ibadanland”
In his remarks, Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde, described Oba Ladoja’s coronation as a moment of pride and joy for the entire people of Ibadanland. He noted that the well-structured succession process to the Olubadan throne has eliminated disputes and enhanced the dignity of the traditional institution.
“It is a great honour to join in celebrating the coronation and presentation of the Staff of Office to His Imperial Majesty, Oba Adewolu Ladoja, as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland. The joy and excitement that fill Ibadan today remind us of the importance of upholding our cherished traditions,” Governor Makinde said.
“The succession process to the throne of Olubadan is now well established and free from contestation, and this is a source of pride for us all. I rejoice with the Olubadan, the Ibadan Council of Chiefs, and the entire people of Ibadanland. It is my prayer that the reign of Oba Adewolu Ladoja will usher in lasting peace, unity, and greater progress for Ibadanland and Oyo State as a whole.”
Unity of Tradition and Politics
The coronation of Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja not only marked a new era in Ibadan’s traditional leadership but also became a stage for reflecting on the city’s strong influence in Nigeria’s political landscape. Tinubu’s acknowledgment of Ibadan’s pivotal role in his rise to the presidency underscores the enduring bond between politics and tradition in the Southwest.
As celebrations continue, many in Ibadan hope that the reign of the new Olubadan will foster peace, prosperity, and unity in the ancient city and across Oyo State.