The President of Omo Ajorosun Club, Engineer Sunday Gbenjo, has described the emergence of Senator Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland as a source of pride to the prestigious club, which counts the new monarch among its members.
Speaking in Ibadan, Engr. Gbenjo noted that Ladoja’s ascension to the throne was not only a personal achievement but also a reflection of the high calibre of personalities that make up Omo Ajorosun Club.
“The Bible says we shall know them by their fruits. Now, you can see one of us becoming Olubadan. It is a litmus test to let you know the kind of quality we are made up of,” he said.
He highlighted that the club boasts professors, lawyers, engineers, senators, over 50 Mogajis, and other notable chieftains, making it one of Ibadan’s most influential socio-cultural groups.
On the personality of Oba Ladoja, Gbenjo described him as a firm and principled leader.
“Baba is somebody who is very firm. When he believes in a cause, he faces it squarely. He’s not the kind of jellyfish that says something today and changes it tomorrow. He is assertive and consistent,” he said.
As part of preparations for the coronation, the club president revealed that members would attend the event at Mapo Hall on September 26 and later return to the club for celebrations.
He added that radio jingles would begin airing to mark the historic occasion.
Looking ahead, Gbenjo prayed for the new monarch, urging God to grant him wisdom and strength to lead Ibadan to greater heights.
“We want him to continue in the principles he is known for, so that Ibadan will grow beyond borders,” he added.
On his role as president of the club, Gbenjo acknowledged challenges ranging from resistance to change among older members to the rising cost of hosting monthly meetings.
He explained that hosting a gathering could cost as much as ₦400,000 due to soaring food and drink prices, making it more difficult than in the past.
Despite these challenges, he expressed optimism about the future of the club and reiterated its commitment to socio-cultural development in Ibadan.
