The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rasheed Ladoja, has declared that he has completely withdrawn from partisan politics to focus on his responsibilities as the monarch of Ibadanland.
Oba Ladoja made this known when former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, accompanied by former Senate President Iyorchia Ayu, ex-governors Nasir El-Rufai of Kaduna, Liyel Imoke of Cross River, and other prominent political figures, visited his private residence in Ibadan, Oyo State, to pay homage following his coronation.
Speaking during the visit, the monarch said, “I’m not one of you again. I am the Olubadan of Ibadanland. So, I am for everybody now. I am not a politician anymore. Welcome to my house.”
He added, “Now that I am the Olubadan, I am no more interested in any other thing than the Olubadan. You are welcome to my house.”
Reflecting on his long political journey with Atiku, Oba Ladoja said, “We started from the Social Democratic Party, we were in exile together, we were in the Peoples Democratic Party together. When I wanted to create an identity, I went to the Accord Party, which became a household name here. I know you politicians have a way of coming back.”
The revered monarch said he would now dedicate his reign to serving the people of Ibadan, Oyo State, and humanity at large. “All the religious leaders said that the only thing the leaders can do is to promote justice and fairness. I will serve my people Ibadan people, the state, Africa and the world at large. I will depend on your support and advice,” he said.
Ladoja was officially presented with the staff and instrument of office last Friday by Governor Seyi Makinde, marking the grand finale of a week-long series of activities celebrating his ascension to the throne.
The coronation featured a cultural day, a coronation lecture, a praise and worship service, and the monarch’s 81st birthday celebration held at Liberty Stadium, Ibadan.
He succeeded the late Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, the 43rd Olubadan, who passed away on July 7, 2025, at the age of 90.
