Former President of Nigeria, Olusegun Obasanjo, has sent a strong message of advice and encouragement to the newly to-be-crowned Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Abdul-Rasheed Ladoja. In his goodwill message, Obasanjo urged the incoming monarch to always ensure that politics does not interfere with the sacred duties and responsibilities of his traditional rulership.
He noted that while political authority and traditional leadership both hold significance in society, they serve entirely different purposes. According to Obasanjo, traditional rulership is rooted in culture, unity, and service to the people, while political leadership revolves around governance and power. He advised that blending the two roles could bring unnecessary conflict and diminish the dignity of the throne.
Obasanjo Stresses Humility, Patience, and Wisdom
In the congratulatory message, which was delivered through his Special Assistant on Media, Kehinde Akinyemi, and made available to journalists on Wednesday, Obasanjo emphasized that occupying such an exalted traditional position requires the highest levels of humility, patience, tolerance, and divine guidance. He further advised the incoming monarch to always seek counsel from wise elders and diverse groups in order to make balanced decisions for the peace and progress of Ibadanland.
“I take this opportunity to congratulate you, Ade a pe lori, bata a pe lese. It is an exalted and responsible position to be traditional ruler of all Ibadan people. It requires humility, patience, divine wisdom, tolerance, and advice from wide and varied quarters to succeed. Traditional rulership does not compete or conflict with political rulership. I wish you all the best and the grace, guide, and direction of Almighty God,” Obasanjo stated in his message.
Olubadan Coronation Scheduled for September 26
Oba Abdul-Rasheed Ladoja, who is set to ascend the throne as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, will officially be crowned on Friday, September 26, 2025. His coronation is expected to attract dignitaries from across Nigeria and beyond, with many residents of Ibadan already expressing joy and anticipation over the historic event.
Obasanjo, while offering his prayers, reminded the monarch that the Olubadan stool is not just a position of honor but one of service to the people. He urged him to remain steadfast in uniting his subjects, promoting peace, and serving as a bridge between tradition and modern governance, without allowing political interests to overshadow the cultural responsibilities tied to his new role.
The coronation of Oba Abdul-Rasheed Ladoja will mark a new chapter in Ibadan’s rich cultural heritage, with Obasanjo’s advice serving as a guiding principle for the monarch as he prepares to take on this great responsibility.