An Eventful Start: Plans Begin for the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland’s Coronation
The much-anticipated coronation of Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, who will ascend as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, is about to take center stage. On Monday, committee members, led by Chief Bayo Oyero, convened for their first official meeting to lay the groundwork for this historic event.
nowahalazone has gathered that the committee brings together esteemed government dignitaries and respected traditional leaders to strategize and coordinate the coronation festivities. According to the committee’s plan, the main coronation will take place at Mapo Hall, Ibadan, on Friday, September 26. In a press release from the Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, it was revealed that the week leading up to the big day will be filled with special events meant to celebrate Ibadan’s rich culture and unity.
Festivities are scheduled to kick off on Monday, September 22, with an interdenominational service at the Olubadan Palace in Oke Aremo, generously organized by the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII). This ceremony will set the tone for the week ahead.
Tuesday will shine a spotlight on Ibadan’s diverse heritage with a Cultural Day, co-hosted by the CCII and the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, offering a colorful showcase of tradition and community.
As the excitement builds, Wednesday’s highlight will be a prestigious coronation lecture led by renowned academic Toyin Falola. The celebrations continue Thursday at the Civic Centre, Idi-Ape, with a Mega Praise Worship gathering, designed to unify the people in joy and gratitude.
The event-packed week will culminate with the official coronation ceremony on Friday, September 26, at Mapo Hall—a proud moment for Ibadanland and its people.
The inaugural meeting saw participation from numerous key figures. Representing the Olubadan were the Asipa Olubadan-designate, Oba Hamidu Ajibade, Chief Nureni Adisa, and the monarch’s media adviser, Chief Adeola Oloko.
In addition, the session welcomed the Commissioners for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters (Demola Ojo), Culture and Tourism, Women Affairs, and Information, reflecting a strong government presence.
Chairmen from Egbeda and Ibadan South-East LGAs attended on behalf of all 11 Ibadanland local governments, while the House of Assembly member for Ibadan South-East also participated in the discussions.
Completing the notable list of attendees were the Director-General of the Governor’s Protocol team and the Permanent Secretary from the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, signaling high-level endorsement and support for the momentous coronation.
