The Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, has described the forthcoming ascension of former Oyo State Governor, Senator Rashidi Ladoja, as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, as a major turning point in Yoruba traditional leadership.
Oba Ogunwusi made the remark on Sunday during a historic visit to the Olubadan-designate at his Bodija residence in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.
According to the Ooni, Oba Ladoja’s wealth of experience, calmness, and wisdom are urgently needed to foster unity among Yoruba monarchs and strengthen the cultural values of the people.
“Oba Ladoja is not just a leader; he is a father figure whose ascension represents a critical turning point for Yoruba traditional leadership. Ibadan is not just another Yoruba city. It is a cradle of strength and resilience. Some Oonis once lived here, placing this land in an enviable spiritual and cultural position,” the monarch said.
He cautioned traditional rulers against rivalry, supremacy battles, and division, stressing that such tendencies weaken the heritage of the Yoruba people.
“We cannot afford division among ourselves. If we fail to unite, we fail our ancestors and our people. Let us build, not break. Let us lead by example and leave legacies of peace and dignity,” he added.
Responding, Oba Ladoja, who is scheduled to be installed on Friday, September 26, 2025, following the passage of Oba Owolabi Olakulehin on July 7, 2025, described the Ooni’s visit as both historic and spiritually symbolic.
He commended Oba Ogunwusi for his consistent efforts to unify Yoruba monarchs and urged him to sustain the role for the collective growth of Yorubaland.
“The Ooni’s influence goes beyond Ile-Ife; it spreads across Yorubaland, and we must tap into that for the growth of our people,” he said.
The Olubadan-designate revealed that the Ooni had long supported his ascension, noting that divine providence made it possible at this time.
“He wanted me to become Olubadan four years ago, but I told him then that it is only God who places one on the throne at the right time. Today, I am grateful to God and to Kabiyesi Ooni for standing by me in my most trying times,” Ladoja recalled.
Oba Ladoja further urged Yoruba monarchs to unite, stressing that unity among traditional rulers would translate into political stability and cultural advancement.
“All the governors that have visited me have been emphasising the unity of Yorubaland, and this must begin with the traditional rulers. If the royal fathers are united, the political class will not be able to manipulate us,” he said.
He also tasked Ibadan Mogajis to tackle drug abuse in their communities and warned Baales against betraying the trust of their people.
President Bola Tinubu is expected to attend the coronation ceremony of Senator Rashidi Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.
