By Peter Omopo
September 1, 2025
Preparations for the coronation of former Oyo State governor, Chief Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland are in top gear, with a week-long programme of activities set to begin on September 22.
This followed the inaugural meeting of the coronation committee held on Monday under the chairmanship of Chief Bayo Oyero. The session was attended by key government officials, including the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Demola Ojo.
According to a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, the events will open with an interdenominational service at the Olubadan Palace, Oke Aremo, organised by the Central Council for Ibadan Indigenes (CCII).
Other highlights include a Cultural Day on September 23, a coronation lecture to be delivered by renowned scholar Prof. Toyin Falola, and a Mega Praise worship at the Civic Centre, Idi-Ape, on September 25.
The main coronation ceremony is scheduled for Friday, September 26, at Mapo Hall, Ibadan.
Dignitaries at the inaugural planning meeting included representatives of the Olubadan, such as the Asipa Olubadan-designate, Oba Hamidu Ajibade, Chief Nureni Adisa, and Chief Adeola Oloko, the Olubadan’s media aide. Commissioners for Culture and Tourism, Women Affairs, and Information were also present, alongside local government chairmen and representatives from the Oyo State House of Assembly.
