•Ladoja, Atiku and Tinubu
President Bola Tinubu and some governors are billed to be in Ibadan, Oyo State, today for the coronation of the 44th Olubadan, Oba Rashidi Ladoja.
The historic event, set to be held at Mapo Hall, is expected to attract dignitaries, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso, ministers, governors, and other prominent guests, reports Daily Trust.
Chairman of the Coronation Committee of the 44th Olubadan, Chief Bayo Oyero, speaking with journalists during a press conference held at the Olubadan’s palace in Oke-Aremo, Ibadan, had confirmed that President Tinubu and other eminent personalities would be in attendance at the coronation.
Oyero described the installation of Ladoja as the new Olubadan as an event of great cultural and historical significance, adding that the installation will not just be a coronation but also a reaffirmation of the unique and timeless chieftaincy system of Ibadanland.
He said the Ibadan succession process is a testament to its democratic and orderly tradition; a system that has ensured peace and stability for generations.
He said: “The ascension of Oba Ladoja is a journey of many years back, a path meticulously followed and guided by the wisdom of the ancestors.”
He noted that Ladoja, being a former senator, governor, and now Olubadan, will be equipped with a unique understanding of the grassroots.
Ladoja became Olubadan after the demise of Oba Owolabi Olakunlehin, who was on the throne for one year.
His path to the throne was sealed by Governor Seyi Makinde’s formal approval of Ladoja’s nomination as the Olubadan-designate.
Makinde resumes ahead of coronation
Meanwhile, Governor Makinde has cut short his vacation ahead of today’s coronation.
The Oyo State House of Assembly received and approved the notice of early resumption from leave submitted by the governor.
He returned to duty ahead of schedule to personally participate in and oversee the coronation ceremony.
During its plenary sitting yesterday, the Assembly presided over by the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Muhammad Abiodun Fadeyi, on behalf of the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, read and acknowledged the governor’s resumption letter.
Governor Makinde, who had initially informed the House of his leave of absence from August 29 to September 29, 2025, stated in his letter that due to the historic and culturally significant coronation of the new Olubadan, he deemed it necessary to cut short his vacation and resume duty.
Members of the House welcomed the governor’s decision and expressed support for his commitment to the state’s cultural heritage.
Police beef up security
The Oyo State Police Command has announced extensive security measures ahead of the coronation ceremony.
Police spokesman, Adewale Osifeso, said the command, working in collaboration with sister security agencies, has finalised strategies to ensure a safe and peaceful ceremony.
According to him, the measures include confidence-building patrols, intensified surveillance, and intelligence-driven stop-and-search operations across Oyo State.
He added that special attention will be given to all entry and exit ports, particularly routes leading to the coronation venue.
“This includes public parks, train stations, and the Samuel Ladoke Akintola International Airport in Ibadan.
“The organising committee, designated by the Oyo State Government, has officially communicated the impending closure of certain routes surrounding the historic Mapo Hall on the day of the coronation, starting from 7am on Friday.
“In light of these alterations, the Oyo State Police Command advises the public to adjust their movement plans accordingly and to consider alternative routes to mitigate potential disruptions.
“Furthermore, the command issues a stern warning against any forms of public disorder, including unauthorised processions and movements within the metropolis before, during, and after the event.
“In prioritising the safety of individuals and property during this celebration, the Oyo State Police Command implores the collaboration of the public in adhering to all directives and in fostering a peaceful atmosphere throughout this momentous occasion.
“Additionally, the general public is encouraged to report any suspicious activities or concerns to their nearest police station or to utilise the designated emergency contact numbers provided by the police,” he said.
