Former Oyo State governor and Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Rashidi Ladoja, is set to receive the beaded-crown from Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, the 43rd Olubadan today.
The occasion is expected to mark a significant step in complying with the laws of Oyo State, regarding the Olubadan Chieftaincy Declaration and Ascendancy.
The Olubadan himself signed the letter, confirming the presentation of the beaded-crown, which was thought to have been sent to Ladoja at the weekend.
The coronation will take place at the inaugural meeting of the Olubadan Advisory Council, also known as Obas-in-Council, which will be the first since the 43rd Olubadan was crowned on July 12, 2024. The meeting will hold at the new Olubadan Palace, Oke-Are, Ibadan.
The council is the highest decision-making body of the Ibadan chieftaincy system. But the Olubadan holds the authority over all chieftaincy matters in Ibadanland.
Meanwhile, all preparations for the beaded-crown presentation to Otun Olubadan have already been finalised, including the blessing of the crown by the Oluwo Afobaje of Ibadanland.
Acting Governor of Oyo State, Bayo Lawal, is expected to attend the occasion and present staff of office to Ladoja, and also deliver an address during the ceremony, alongside the Oyo State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Ademola Ojo.
Following Otun Olubadan’s acceptance of the beaded-crown, his residence in Ibadan has become a hub of activity
Visitors from far and wide have come to show their support and extend their congratulations, including Governor Seyi Makinde, who is currently on leave; Ibadan elders; former presidents general of Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Bode Amao, Bayo Oyero, Wole Akinwande and Yemisi Adeaga, as well as the current President General, CCII, Niyi Ajewole, and various community leaders.
Notable figures such as former minister of state for defence, Musiliu Obanikoro, and Secretary of the Lagos State Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC), Mutiu Aare, have also visited, along with members of Omo Ajorosun Club and Borokinni Club, both at home and in the diaspora.
The list also comprised the Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Edo and Delta states, Makanjuola Akinola; Babaloja General of Oyo State, Yekini Abass; Baales (village heads), and Ibadan Mogajis (family compound heads), led by their President, Asimiyu Ariori, as well as market men and women.
The visitations came with assurances that accepting the beaded-crown would not bring any harm to Otun Olubadan.