Ibadan was alive with celebration today as Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja officially became the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland in a historic coronation ceremony at Mapo Hall. The event drew a star-studded crowd, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, state governors, royal fathers, and distinguished Nigerians, all gathered to witness the monumental occasion.
The most symbolic moment of the day was Oba Ladoja’s _“last bow”_, a traditional act of humility performed before assuming the crown. Captured in a viral video, the gesture marked the end of his journey through Ibadan’s unique chieftaincy ladder, which spans decades of dedication and service, and the beginning of his reign as the city’s paramount ruler.
Online reactions to the coronation have been a mix of admiration and humor. While many praised the preservation of Yoruba traditions, some couldn’t resist playful commentary about the monarch’s age and the longevity of his reign. One user quipped, _“This one set no go reach 2 years for throne,”_ while others showered him with blessings, writing, _“Long live the king!”
Oba Ladoja’s ascension reflects the resilience of Ibadan’s orderly succession system, which ensures every chief has a shot at the throne. With his coronation, the city gains not just a monarch but also a leader whose political experience and deep cultural roots promise to bring a unique touch to the revered Olubadan stool.
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