The newly crowned Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has declared himself the “king of all religions,” pledging to serve all residents of the city regardless of their background, status, or faith.
Oba Ladoja made the declaration during a thanksgiving service held at the Church of the Ascension, Ibadan, on Sunday, just two days after his official coronation.
The former Oyo State governor was crowned the 44th Olubadan on Friday, September 27, 2025, at Mapo Hall, in a traditional ceremony presided over by Governor Seyi Makinde.
During the church service, the monarch assured the people of his commitment to unity, development, peace, and progress in Ibadan and beyond.
“Ibadan will be great by God’s grace with your support,” Oba Ladoja said. “I’m now king of all religions. I am the Olubadan for everyone.”
He also described his role as a coordinator of leadership, calling on all residents of Ibadan to work with him for the good of the land.
“We are all governing Ibadan. I’m just the coordinator. You people are the small Olubadan; I’m the big Olubadan,” he said, drawing laughter and applause from the congregation.
Oba Ladoja highlighted that his success as Olubadan would not be his alone, but a collective achievement of the Olubadan-in-Council and the entire people of Ibadanland.
The position of Olubadan is the highest traditional stool in Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State and one of the most prominent cities in southwestern Nigeria.
Oba Ladoja’s emergence as Olubadan comes with high expectations, given his political background and influence. His declaration as “king of all religions” is seen as a move to promote religious tolerance and foster unity in the culturally and religiously diverse city.
Ibadan has a long-standing tradition of peaceful coexistence among Muslims, Christians, and traditional worshippers, and the new Olubadan’s message has been welcomed by many as a call for continued harmony.
