Oba Ladoja receives Atiku, El-Rufai as first official visitors after coronation

By Isaac Joseph Inyang

Barely days after his historic coronation as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, on Tuesday, welcomed former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar and other political heavyweights as his first official visitors at his Bodija residence in Ibadan.

Atiku, who was accompanied by former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, and ex-Senate President, Iyorcha Ayu, led the delegation that paid homage to the monarch in what many observers described as a symbolic gesture of respect and recognition for the newly crowned traditional ruler.

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The Olubadan, flanked by his Oloris, received his guests warmly, marking the first high-profile courtesy visit since his enthronement last Friday. In his address, Atiku tendered an apology for his inability to attend the coronation ceremony, explaining that circumstances beyond his control kept him away from the landmark event.

“Kindly forgive our inability to attend your coronation as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland on Friday,” he said, before extending heartfelt congratulations to the monarch. He prayed that Oba Ladoja’s reign would be long, peaceful, and fruitful, bringing greater prosperity, harmony, and development to Ibadanland.

The visit, which drew attention from across the political and traditional spectrum, underscored the significance of Oba Ladoja’s ascension to the throne. For many in Ibadan, it was also a moment that reflected the deep ties between politics and tradition, as prominent figures sought to align with the revered monarch at the dawn of his reign.

Oba Ladoja, a respected statesman and cultural icon, was crowned last week in a grand ceremony that attracted dignitaries, traditional rulers, and well-wishers from across Nigeria. His reception of Atiku and his entourage has now set the tone for a series of expected visits as Ibadan embraces its new chapter under his leadership.