Rashidi Ladoja, the former governor of Oyo State and the Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, is set to receive a beaded crown today from the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin. The event, which will take place at the Olubadan Palace in Oke Aremo, Ibadan, marks Ladoja’s formal induction as a beaded-crown-wearing monarch in Ibadan.
This development follows Ladoja’s public announcement of his acceptance of the crown during a live radio broadcast in Ibadan. Since his acceptance was made public the previous Sunday, his residence in Bodija has been bustling with visitors offering their support and congratulations.
Among those who have visited are Governor Seyi Makinde; Chief Bode Amao, the Asiwaju of Ibadanland; Chief Bayo Oyero, the former President General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes; Chief Wole Akinwande; Yemisi Adeaga; and Niyi Ajewole, the current President General. Also present were Alhaji Daud Akinola, the Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Edo, and Delta states; Chief Yekini Abass, the state Babaloja General; Baales; Ibadan Mogajis led by Chief Asimiyu Ariori; and market men and women.
On Sunday, notable visitors included former minister Musiliu Obanikoro; Chief Mutiu Aare; members of the Omo Ajorosun Club led by Sunday Gbenjo; and members of the Borokinni Club, both home and abroad, led by Sheikh Lukman Asukuna.
A reliable palace source informed Punch that the ceremony is a significant step in adhering to the existing regulations concerning the Olubadan Declaration and succession. The source revealed that a letter, signed by the Olubadan, was likely delivered to High Chief Ladoja over the weekend.
The presentation of the beaded crown will occur during the first meeting of the Olubadan-in-Council since the new Olubadan’s assumption of office on July 12. The Olubadan holds ultimate authority over all chieftaincy matters in Ibadanland.
Preparations for the crown presentation are reportedly complete, with the Oluwo Afobaje of Ibadanland expected to bless the crown before its presentation. Additionally, acting Governor Bayo Lawal might be present to present the staff of office and deliver a speech, while the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Ademola Ojo, is also anticipated to attend.
