Former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo has congratulated the 44th new Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Abdul-Rasheed Adewolu Ladoja ahead of the formal ascension to the throne on Friday in the ancient town of Ibadan, Oyo State capital.
In a statement by his Special Assistant on Media, Kehinde Akinyemi made available to newsmen on Wednesday, Obasanjo advised the ex – governor – turned Olubadan to be vigilant and not allow politics to seep or creep into the traditional rulership of Ibadan land
The ex – President who in Yoruba royalty salutation prays, “Ade a pe lori, bata a pe lese,” for Olubadan Ladoja, added that traditional rulership do not compete with political rulership.
He, however, noted that the formal coronation ceremony on Friday was only a mere formality.
The elder statesman who is presently in New York for the 80th United Nations (UN) General Assembly session however advised the new monarch to separate tradition and politics, noting that the new position requires humility and tolerance among others.
Obasanjo in the congratulatory letter dated July 14th 2025 reads:
“Although the formal elevation of you to the throne as Olubadan of Ibadan has not been made, by convention, the announcement which should only be a formality should come sooner than later. Meanwhile, I take this opportunity to congratulate you in advance of formal announcement. Ade a pe lori, bata a pe lese.
“It is an exalted and responsible position to be traditional ruler of all Ibadan people. It requires humility, patience, divine wisdom, tolerance and advice from wide and varied quarters to succeed. “Traditional rulership does not compete or conflict with political rulership.
“I wish you all the best and the grace, guide and direction of Almighty God,” Obasanjo stated.
