Former President of Nigeria, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, has advised the incoming Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Abdul-Rasheed Ladoja, to draw a clear line between politics and traditional leadership as he prepares to ascend the ancient throne.
The advice came in a congratulatory message issued on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, just two days before Ladoja’s official coronation as the 44th Olubadan. The statement, released through Obasanjo’s Special Assistant on Media, Kehinde Akinyemi, praised Ladoja and reminded him of the weighty responsibilities of the office he is about to take on.
“I take this opportunity to congratulate you,” Obasanjo said. “It is an exalted and responsible position to be the traditional ruler of all Ibadan people. It requires humility, patience, divine wisdom, tolerance, and advice from wide and varied quarters to succeed.”
The former president, who himself remains an influential figure in Nigerian politics and traditional circles, warned that the role of a monarch should not be mixed with politics. “Traditional rulership does not compete or conflict with political rulership,” Obasanjo stated, encouraging the incoming monarch to uphold the dignity of the throne.
Oba Abdul-Rasheed Ladoja, a former governor of Oyo State, will officially be crowned on Friday, September 26, 2025, as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland. His ascension follows traditional processes and succession plans laid down by the Olubadan Chieftaincy Declaration, which outlines the rotational system of the Ibadan royal structure.
Preparations have reached full gear across the city of Ibadan, one of Nigeria’s largest and most historic urban centers. Cultural displays, traditional rites, and visits from dignitaries are ongoing ahead of Friday’s ceremony.
Ladoja, who governed Oyo State between 2003 and 2007, has remained an influential figure both politically and within the Ibadan traditional institution. His journey to the throne has attracted attention nationwide, not only because of his past political career, but also because of the symbolic weight of the Olubadan stool.
Ibadan, as the capital of Oyo State and a city rich in Yoruba history, places significant importance on the office of the Olubadan. The monarch is expected to lead not only with cultural pride but also with impartiality, especially in a political environment often filled with division.
“The Olubadan must be father to all Ibadan sons and daughters, regardless of their political leanings,” said Adebayo Olatunde, a political analyst based in Ibadan. “Obasanjo’s words should not be taken lightly. Ladoja has seen politics at the highest level, but now he must step into a different kind of leadership.”
Oba Abdul-Rasheed Ladoja’s move from active politics into full traditional rulership marks a significant transition. His past as a governor, senator, and businessman has shaped his public image as a bold, outspoken leader. As Olubadan, he is now expected to shift into a more unifying, non-partisan role.
Though many believe his political experience could help him navigate complex community issues, others are cautious, warning that any trace of political favoritism could undermine the neutrality of the Olubadan stool.
Obasanjo’s message serves as a public reminder of the expectations that come with traditional leadership in Nigeria’s contemporary society.
“I wish you all the best and the grace, guidance, and direction of Almighty God,” Obasanjo concluded in his message.
As Ibadan prepares to welcome its new monarch, the focus is now on how Oba Ladoja will lead, unite, and preserve the traditions of Ibadan while responding to modern-day challenges.
With the coronation just hours away, all eyes are on the Mapo Hall, the historic seat of power in Ibadan where a new chapter in the city’s history will officially begin.
