Tradition Meets Politics: Ladoja’s Journey to the Olubadan Throne

The week-long programme of events, designed to showcase the cultural richness and spiritual heritage of the city, will run from Monday, September 22, to Saturday, October 4, 2025. The highlight will be on Friday, September 26;  a day after Ladoja marks his 81st birthday; when the official coronation ceremony takes place at Mapo Hall.

Governor Seyi Makinde had earlier approved Ladoja’s nomination following the passing of Oba Owolabi Olakulehin on July 7. His enthronement is being described as the perfect blend of modern leadership and ancient tradition, given his long influence in Nigeria’s political and social space.

Day-by-Day Activities:

Sept 22 (Monday): Inter-religious prayers at the Olubadan Palace, Oke Aremo, followed by a stage play, ARUSA, dramatising Ibadan’s royal lineage at Apex Event Centre, Agodi.

Sept 23 (Tuesday): A colourful cultural fiesta featuring music, dance, and art at the Olubadan Stadium, Iyaganku.

Sept 24 (Wednesday): The first Coronation Lecture by renowned historian Prof. Toyin Falola at the University of Ibadan’s International Conference Centre.

Sept 25 (Thursday – Ladoja’s Birthday): Islamic prayers at the Olubadan House in the morning and a grand praise and worship concert in the afternoon.

Sept 26 (Friday – Coronation Day): Coronation at Mapo Hall from 9:00 a.m., followed by a grand reception at Liberty Stadium later in the day.

Sept 28 (Sunday): Christian thanksgiving service at the Cathedral Church of The Ascension, New Bodija, and a civic reception at Ibadan Civic Centre.

Oct 3 (Friday): Jumat prayers at the Central Mosque, Oja’ba.

Oct 4 (Saturday): Traditional thanksgiving (Isese) at Osemeji, Oja’ba, to round off the celebrations.

Security has already been heightened across the city, with Ibadan expected to host traditional rulers, politicians, scholars, and cultural enthusiasts from far and near. Hotels, transport services, and local businesses are reporting increased activity in anticipation of the influx of guests.

For many, the coronation of Senator Ladoja is more than a royal ceremony; it is a symbolic merging of his political journey with Ibadan’s age-old institution, setting the stage for a reign that embodies both governance and tradition.