The Olubadan-elect of Ibadanland, Oba Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja, Arusa I, has promised that his reign will usher in a new era for the ancient city, with a focus on restoring its glory, tackling insecurity, and mobilizing indigenes and non-indigenes alike for development.
Speaking in an exclusive interview at his Bodija residence, Ladoja shared details of his life, his plans for Ibadan, and his longstanding relationship with former President Olusegun Obasanjo.
“Ibadan Will Be Different Under My Watch”
Oba Ladoja said Ibadan people should expect a reign of action and accountability rather than glamour. According to him, his years as a corporate executive, entrepreneur, and politician have prepared him for leadership at this stage.
“Ibadan was once the pride of the old Western Region, and I want us to return to that glory,” he said. “We have people across the world doing great things, but many say they are never called upon to contribute at home. That will change. Everyone will be conscripted to work for Ibadan.”
He recalled how individuals not originally from Ibadan, such as former Minister Nweke Jnr and WTO chief Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, once played crucial roles in advancing the city’s interests. “If they could contribute so much, why should indigenes do less?” he asked.
The monarch-elect vowed to tackle crime, insisting that community leaders like Mogajis and Baales must live among their people to exert real influence. “Ibadan was known as a city that welcomed both indigenes and strangers. We can revive that spirit again,” he declared.
A Simple Life, Focused on Service
Oba Ladoja described himself as a man of modest taste, prioritizing service above luxury. “Many think being Kabiyesi is about glamour, but that’s old thinking. Today, we must roll up our sleeves and work. For me, eating well and living simply matters more than extravagant dressing,” he noted.
On Education, Faith, and Engineering
The Olubadan-elect recounted his early passion for engineering, which earned him a Belgian government scholarship to study chemical engineering abroad at a time when the course was unavailable in Nigeria.
He attributed much of his journey to divine providence. “God has always been on my side. Everything I’ve achieved is by His grace, not because I am the most prayerful, but because I depend on Him,” he said.
His Relationship with Obasanjo
Reflecting on his once tense but now cordial relationship with former President Olusegun Obasanjo, Ladoja recalled their political disagreements, particularly over Obasanjo’s third-term ambition.
“He once said he would ruin me, but I told him, ‘Ti Olorun ba fun yin se’—if God approves, so be it. But God didn’t. My return to office while he was still in power proved that,” Ladoja recounted.
He, however, stressed that their relationship has since improved. “Baba recently wrote me a beautiful letter. He is a good man, though sometimes erratic. God has been gracious to him, just as He has been to me.”
Coronation Plans
On his forthcoming coronation, Oba Ladoja confirmed that President Bola Tinubu, state governors, lawmakers, captains of industry, and politicians across party lines are expected to attend.
“I am no longer a politician, I am now a father to all. My coronation will bring together people from all walks of life,” he said.
