Oba Rashidi Ladoja, the new Olubadan of Ibadan and former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo have ended their age long rift. They have become friends again. And this is authoritative.
City People confirmed this a few days ago when we paid a courtesy call on the new king.
He told City People matter of factly that he and OBJ have renewed their friendship, and he has also invited him to his coronation event scheduled for 26th September.
The origin of the fight between Chief Olusegun Obasanjo and Oba Rashidi Ladoja stems from Oba Ladoja’s impeachment as the Governor of Oyo State in 2006, which he claims was orchestrated by Obasanjo himself.
Oba Ladoja was impeached on January 12, 2006, but the Appeal Court later declared the impeachment null and illegal, and he was reinstated on December 7, 2006.
According to Ladoja, he met with Obasanjo along with other PDP governors, including Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola, Chief Gbenga Daniel, and Dr. Segun Agagu, to beg Obasanjo to halt the impeachment plans. However, Obasanjo insisted on proceeding with the impeachment, even after Ladoja refused to resign.
“You see, some people said, it was late Alao Akala or that it was late Baba Adedibu. No, it was not any of them. It was Obasanjo.”
“Baba then said ‘Rashidi, go and resign!’ I said ‘No, I won’t resign!’ He said, ‘if you don’t resign, you would be removed’. I said ‘No, they cannot do it.’ He said ‘why’. I said ‘because you cannot get two-thirds.’ He said ‘two-thirds my foot’ and then he left the place in fury.”
Ladoja’s impeachment and subsequent reinstatement have had lasting impacts on Oyo State politics. Despite this, Ladoja has continued to play significant roles in both politics and traditional leadership, including his recent crowning as a beaded Oba in Ibadan.
Oba Ladoja has been quite vocal about his past grievances with Obasanjo, stating that Obasanjo was the mastermind behind his impeachment, contrary to popular belief that it was orchestrated by Lamidi Adedibu and Adebayo Alao-Akala.
What sort of a person is Oba Ladoja?
We can tell you. Oba Rashidi Ladoja is a highly-principled man known for his wisdom, integrity, and leadership. Here are some key aspects of his personality:
He’s admired for his humility and ability to mentor younger politicians, showcasing his commitment to guiding others.
Oba Ladoja has demonstrated remarkable resilience in the face of adversity, including his impeachment as governor, which he attributed to political godfathers rather than the system.
As a traditionalist, he values Ibadan’s customs and history, yet he’s also open to progress and development, making him a balanced leader.
With a degree in Chemical engineering from the University of Liège in Belgium, Oba Ladoja has a solid foundation in science and technology.
He’s a seasoned entrepreneur with interests in shipping, manufacturing, banking, agriculture, and transportation, showcasing his business prowess.
Oba Ladoja prioritizes community development, evident in his initiatives as governor and his current role as Olubadan-designate, where he’ll likely focus on promoting education, health, and youth empowerment.
His defense of Ibadan’s chieftaincy system and customs, even in the face of opposition, highlights his dedication to preserving cultural heritage.
Overall, Oba Ladoja’s blend of traditional values, business expertise, and political experience makes him a unique and respected figure in Nigerian politics and culture.
Ibadan people like Oba Ladoja. Why are Ibadan people happy with him?
City People gathered that Ibadan people are happy with Oba Rashidi Ladoja for several reasons.
As a seasoned politician and former governor of Oyo State, Oba Ladoja brings valuable experience and insight to his role as Olubadan, which Ibadan people appreciate.
He’s committed to preserving Ibadan’s rich cultural heritage and promoting unity, resonating with the community’s values.
Oba Ladoja emphasizes collective responsibility, encouraging contributions from all Ibadan indigenes, and promises to give women, particularly Iyalodes, prominent roles.
His interactions with various dignitaries and community leaders demonstrate his commitment to working with different stakeholders for the betterment of Ibadan.
Oba Ladoja aims to attract investments, promote development, and ensure peaceful coexistence, aligning with Ibadan people’s aspirations for growth and stability.
So, Oba Ladoja’s leadership style, cultural commitment, and inclusive approach have earned him admiration and support from the Ibadan community.
Oba Rashidi Ladoja’s forthcoming coronation as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland is scheduled for Friday, September 26, 2025.
The coronation ceremony will take place on September 26, 2025, at the historic Mapo Hall in Ibadan, Oyo State capital.
The Coronation Committee, chaired by Chief Mustapha Bayo Oyero, has been working tirelessly to ensure a successful event. A week-long program of activities has been planned, starting with an Interdenominational service at the Olubadan Palace Oke Aremo on September 22.
The ceremony is expected to draw prominent traditional rulers, political leaders, and dignitaries from across Nigeria and beyond.
Ladoja has pledged to return to his alma mater, Ibadan Boys’ High School, to teach Mathematics and Physics after his coronation, highlighting his commitment to education and community development.
The coronation ceremony promises to be a grand celebration of Ibadan’s rich cultural heritage, marking the beginning of a new era in the city’s traditional institution.
