The Olubadan-in-Council on Tuesday formally welcomed the Olubadan-elect, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, back to Ibadan after weeks of absence, during a two-hour closed-door meeting at his Bodija residence.
The meeting, which began at 11:25 a.m. and ended at 1:20 p.m., was their first with the Olubadan-elect in nearly two and a half months. It also featured a solemn one-minute silence in honour of the late Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who passed away on July 7, while Oba Ladoja was away.
Leading the delegation, Otun Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Kola Adegbola, congratulated Oba Ladoja on his emergence as the next Olubadan. He assured the monarch-in-waiting of the council’s unwavering support, noting that public expectations were high and that prayers would be offered for his successful reign.
Council members also discussed matters relating to the forthcoming coronation, particularly cultural and ceremonial aspects, and the anticipated large crowd. They pledged their readiness to serve in any capacity before, during, and after the historic event.
In his response, Oba Ladoja thanked the council for unanimously ratifying his candidacy in his absence. He promised to run an inclusive and collective administration that would give weight to their counsel and contributions.
The Olubadan-elect emphasized the crucial roles of Governor Seyi Makinde, as well as traditional stakeholders like the Araba and Oluwo Afobaje, in the coronation process. He assured the council that once preliminary consultations with the governor are concluded, an official date for the coronation would be announced.
“Now that I am back, we can begin to meet with His Excellency to finalize details of the coronation. Be assured that the Olubadan-in-Council will be fully carried along in the state coronation committee,” Oba Ladoja stated.
The meeting ended with lunch, after which a vote of thanks was delivered by Ekarun Balogun of Ibadanland, High Chief Sharafadeen Alli.
Those present at the meeting included Otun Balogun, Oba Kola Adegbola; Osi Balogun, Oba Olubunmi Isioye-Dada; Asipa Olubadan, Oba Abiodun Kola-Daisi; Asipa Balogun, Oba Abiodun Azeez; Ekerin Olubadan, Oba Hamidu Ajibade; Ekerin Balogun, Oba Akeem Mobolaji Adewoyin; and High Chief Sharafadeen Alli. The Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, was absent but sent his apologies.
Later in the day, prominent dignitaries including former Minister Elder Wole Oyelese, APC 2023 gubernatorial candidate Senator Teslim Folarin, traditional chiefs, businessmen, and community leaders, paid courtesy visits to the Olubadan-elect.
