By Charles Pemu 
IBADAN, OYO STATE – The city of Ibadan is buzzing with activity and a high level of security as it prepares for the historic coronation of the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, on Friday, September 26, 2025. The Oyo State Government has declared its readiness to host the event, which is expected to be attended by President Bola Tinubu and other prominent dignitaries.
On Wednesday, the President’s advance team arrived in Ibadan, marking the temporary reopening of the Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport, which had been undergoing upgrades since March. Hotels across the city have reported being fully booked as visitors, including traditional rulers, government officials, and tourists, pour into Ibadan for the ceremonies.
Tradition Meets Modernity
Oba Ladoja, who will celebrate his 81st birthday in seclusion today as part of the traditional rites, will receive both the staff of office and the instrument of office on Friday. The coronation will take place at the historic Mapo Hall, the traditional venue for the installation of Ibadan monarchs.
In a pre-coronation lecture, renowned historian Prof. Toyin Falola urged the new monarch to strike a balance between cherished traditions and the demands of modern development. Falola praised Ladoja’s political and administrative experience as a former governor and senator, stating that it will be invaluable in guiding the city’s modernization. As a personal gift, Falola presented the Olubadan with a 400-page book he authored for the occasion, titled “Ibadan in History: Issues in Tradition and Modernity.”
In a separate statement, former President Olusegun Obasanjo congratulated Oba Ladoja and advised him to separate tradition from politics, emphasizing that the new role requires humility, patience, and tolerance.