Hon. Prince Nurudeen Ladoja, younger brother to the designated Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty-designate Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, has described his brother’s impending ascension to the throne as a milestone in the history of the ancient city.
Speaking ahead of the coronation, Prince Nurudeen noted that the former governor and senator has always played a fatherly role within the family and is now set to extend that fatherly leadership to the entire Ibadanland.
“He started as a Mogaji before progressing to this exalted position. He has been a father to us in the family, and now he is stepping into the role of father of Ibadanland,” he said.
Prince Ladoja highlighted the uniqueness of the forthcoming coronation, stressing that it would be the first time a former governor and seasoned politician ascends the revered throne. According to him, this development will elevate Ibadan’s profile among Yoruba kingdoms and strengthen the city’s global recognition.
“This is historic. For the first time, a former governor, a senator, and a seasoned politician will become Olubadan. With his coming to the throne, Ibadan will command greater respect worldwide. People used to say Ibadan obas were illiterate, but with Oba Ladoja, the narrative will change,” he remarked.
He also expressed confidence that dignitaries, political leaders, and traditional rulers from across the country would gather in Ibadan to witness the historic moment, a testament to the new monarch’s influence and popularity.
“During his time as governor, he related with 36 governors, and as a senator, he worked with 106 senators. To see many of them converge in Ibadan will show the weight of his personality and the significance of this coronation,” he stated.
On the qualities that prepared Oba-designate Ladoja for the throne, Prince Nurudeen described him as principled, courageous, and deeply experienced.
“Kabiyesi is unapologetically stubborn in a positive way. He is calculative, principled, and has seen it all, both locally and internationally. That wealth of experience is what he will bring to the throne,” he said.
Prince Nurudeen further assured that the Ladoja family and the wider Ibadan community would rally around the new monarch to ensure his reign is marked by peace, unity, and development.
“We have no choice but to support him, to make sure his reign is successful, peaceful, and remembered in history. His coming is a blessing, and Ibadan will rise to a more respected position under his leadership,” he concluded.
