The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, has expressed optimism that the reign of the newly installed Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, will usher in an era of harmony and growth for the historic city and its environs.
In a congratulatory statement shared on his official X (formerly Twitter) account on Friday, Abbas praised the monarch as a leader endowed with exceptional wisdom and a dedication to peace, highlighting the significance of his ascension as a landmark event for Ibadanland.
“Oba Ladoja exemplifies rare sagacity, serves as a unifier, and is a peace-driven ruler whose leadership is set to foster unity and development within Ibadan and its neighboring regions,” the Speaker affirmed.
He further emphasized the unique timing of the coronation, which coincided with the former Oyo State governor’s 81st birthday, making the occasion doubly momentous for both the people of Ibadan and the wider Yoruba community.
“Today, I join the citizens of Ibadanland and the entire Yoruba nation in honoring a distinguished statesman, leader, and now traditional ruler-Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja-on the dual celebration of his 81st birthday and his installation as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland,” Abbas remarked.
Reflecting on Oba Ladoja’s shift from a political career to traditional leadership, Abbas noted that this transition highlights his enduring dedication to public service and governance.
“His progression from political office to the throne underscores his inherent leadership qualities and unwavering commitment to serving the people,” he stated.
The Speaker also reaffirmed the 10th House of Representatives’ commitment to bolstering traditional institutions nationwide, emphasizing the vital role monarchs play in fostering national cohesion.
“Being of royal descent myself, I hold our traditional institutions in the highest esteem. Consequently, under my stewardship, the 10th House is devoted to achieving constitutional recognition for our esteemed monarchs. I eagerly anticipate collaborating with the new Olubadan to advance this cause,” Abbas declared.
He called on the residents of Ibadan to unite in support of their new monarch as he embarks on this fresh phase of leadership, stating, “I extend my congratulations to the people of Ibadan on this historic occasion and encourage everyone to stand firmly behind His Imperial Majesty, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, as he commences this new journey of leadership and service.”
Abbas concluded with prayers for the monarch’s reign and the preservation of Nigeria’s traditional institutions, proclaiming, “Long live the Olubadan of Ibadanland! Long live our cherished traditional institutions!”
According to LEADERSHIP, Oba Ladoja, who previously served as governor of Oyo State and as a Senator, was formally installed as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland during a ceremony held at Mapo Hall on Friday.
