President Bola Tinubu on Friday arrived at the historic Mapo Hall, Ibadan, for the coronation of Oba Rashidi Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.
The President was welcomed by a massive crowd of citizens, government officials, and dignitaries who gathered to witness the historic event.
Oba Ladoja, 81, a respected businessman and political figure, is the first former governor of Oyo State to ascend the Olubadan throne. He emerged as the successor to Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who died on July 7, 2025.
His coronation is seen as a blend of politics and tradition, with the new monarch rising through the Olubadan chieftaincy ranks over 32 years before attaining the revered stool.
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, who cut short his annual leave to present the staff of office, joined other traditional rulers, political leaders, and business moguls at the ceremony.
Security was tight around the Mapo Hall, with personnel from the police, DSS, and other agencies ensuring order. Major roads were closed, while cultural displays by drummers and dancers added colour to the event.
The Olubadan stool is regarded as the paramount traditional institution of Ibadan, one of the largest cities in West Africa, and holds cultural and political importance among the Yoruba people.
As the ceremony progressed, Oba Ladoja completed traditional rites, including decoration with Akoko leaves, before being formally crowned.
