The executive chairman of Oluyole Local Government, Asiwaju Akeem Olatunji, has declared that the coronation of Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland will usher in a new era of prosperity, unity, and socio-economic advancement for the ancient city.
Speaking with newsmen at Mapo Hall on Friday shortly after Governor Seyi Makinde officially presented the staff and instruments of office to the new monarch, Olatunji described Oba Ladoja as a leader with a proven record of service and vision.
“Oba Ladoja is a man of history. He served and was greatly loved as governor. He laid solid foundations in education, agriculture, and infrastructure.
“He restored dignity to workers through prompt salary payments, encouraged farming as a means of wealth creation, and initiated urban renewal projects.
“Today, we are confident he will do even more as our king because his reign is not just symbolic; it is visionary,” Olatunji said.
The Oluyole LG boss noted that the people of Ibadan hold high expectations for the reign of the new Olubadan, recalling the remarkable strides Oba Ladoja made as governor of Oyo State between 2003 and 2007.
According to him, the ascension of Oba Ladoja to the throne has been described as an opportunity for Ibadan to consolidate Governor Makinde’s transformative agenda, positioning the ancient city as a cultural and commercial powerhouse not only in the South West but across Nigeria.
“During his time as governor, Oba Ladoja invested heavily in education, building model schools and enhancing access for young people. He prioritized workers’ welfare, improved healthcare delivery, encouraged grassroots sports development, and promoted policies that gave Ibadan a strong national voice.
“These are achievements that people have not forgotten. That is why there is such optimism and high expectations that his reign will unite Ibadan sons and daughters and attract investors into the city,” Olatunji added.
Describing the coronation as “a divine blessing” for Ibadanland, Olatunji stressed that Oba Ladoja combines rare qualities of political acumen, grassroots connection, and deep cultural understanding.
“Our people believe his reign will bring peace, attract investments, and inspire the next generation. We witnessed history today as we saw the president of the nation personally present to grace the occasion.
“That’s a typical example of what his influence can do in terms of attraction. As Oluyole LG Chairman, I see this as the beginning of a new chapter where Ibadan’s economy will be re-energized and our cultural pride elevated to global recognition,” he concluded.