The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, on Monday will honour High Chief Rashidi Ladoja, the former governor of Oyo State and current Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, with a ceremonial beaded crown.
According to The PUNCH, the event will take place at the Olubadan Palace in Oke Aremo, Ibadan, marking Ladoja’s official entry into the ranks of beaded-crown-wearing monarchs in the region.
The presentation ceremony is significant as it adheres to the traditions outlined in the Olubadan Declaration and the governance structure of Ibadanland.
The news of Ladoja’s acceptance of the crown was publicly announced during a live radio program in Ibadan, and since then, his Bodija residence has become a focal point for congratulatory visits.
Prominent visitors to Ladoja’s home include Governor Seyi Makinde, Chief Bode Amao, Asiwaju of Ibadanland), Chief Bayo Oyero, former President General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes, Chief Wole Akinwande, Yemisi Adeaga, and the current President General, Niyi Ajewole.
Other notable guests have included Alhaji Daud Akinola (Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Edo, and Delta states), Chief Yekini Abass (state Babaloja General), as well as various Baales, Ibadan Mogajis led by Chief Asimiyu Ariori, and local market men and women.
On Sunday, the show of solidarity continued with visits from former minister Musiliu Obanikoro, Chief Mutiu Aare, members of the Omo Ajorosun Club led by Sunday Gbenjo, and members of the Borokinni Club, both home and abroad, led by Sheikh Lukman Asukuna.
A palace source revealed that this ceremony is a pivotal step in the chieftaincy system of Ibadanland.
The letter confirming the presentation of the beaded crown, signed by the Olubadan, was reportedly delivered to Ladoja over the weekend.
The event will mark the first meeting of the Olubadan-in-Council since the new Olubadan’s assumption of office on July 12.
Additionally, it is expected that the Oluwo Afobaje of Ibadanland will bless the crown prior to its presentation.
The acting Governor, Bayo Lawal, is also anticipated to be present to deliver the staff of office and address the assembly, with the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Ademola Ojo, also likely to attend.
