Excitement grows in Ibadan as Oba Rashidi Ladoja is installed as the 44th Olubadan on Friday at Mapo Hall, with President Tinubu and top dignitaries expected

Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, is buzzing with excitement as residents and dignitaries prepare for the historic installation of Oba Rashidi Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland on Friday.

Also read: Olusegun Obasanjo Congratulates New Olubadan Ladoja

The weeklong programme marking the coronation will climax with the official presentation of the Staff of Office to Ladoja at Mapo Hall, where Governor Seyi Makinde, returning from his annual vacation, will preside.

Ladoja, who clocked 81 on Thursday, is a businessman, former senator, and one-time governor of Oyo State. His ascension follows the passing of his predecessor, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, on 7 July, two days after his 90th birthday.

City in Celebration

Billboards with Ladoja’s portraits and congratulatory messages now adorn major roads such as Iwo Road, Mokola, Ring Road, Challenge, Sango, Eleyele, Molete, Apata, Akala, Akobo, and Bashorun. Convoys of visiting guests can already be seen across the metropolis.

The Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority has deployed officers at key junctions, while police and other security agencies have taken positions across the city to ensure smooth movement and order.

The recently reopened Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport, upgraded ahead of the ceremony, is expected to welcome President Bola Tinubu, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, governors, and top traditional rulers who will be attending the coronation.

Special Arrangements

Markets across Ibadan will be shut on Friday during the ceremony, according to the organising committee chaired by Chief Bayo Oyero, former President of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes.

The police have also announced that adjoining roads around Mapo Hall will be closed to traffic, urging motorists to use alternative routes.

Also read: Olubadan-designate Vows to Restore Ibadan’s Lost Glory

The installation of Oba Ladoja marks not only a continuation of Ibadan’s rich chieftaincy tradition but also a significant cultural moment for the people of Oyo State and beyond.