Why I accepted to become king in Olubadan line, by Ladoja

Former governor Rasidi Ladoja has stated that there is no issue with assuming the position of king in the Olubadan lineage.

He emphasised that the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, remains the only paramount king in the ancient city, while all other Obas are considered subjects and advisers.

With his recent crowning, Ladoja has now adopted the title of Oba.

Speaking after receiving his beaded crown as the Otun Olubadan of Ibadan from the Olubadan at a ceremony held on Monday, August 12, Oba Ladoja affirmed his new status.

The event was graced by Acting Governor Bayo Lawal, who presented him with the staff and instrument of office.

Addressing concerns, Oba Ladoja mentioned that those who anticipated a crisis in the ancient city due to the reform of the Olubadan Chieftaincy Declaration were mistaken.

He explained that all parties involved were able to resolve their differences amicably.

Ladoja also noted that he agreed to take the crown after all his reservations and uncertainties were addressed.

Oba Ladoja said: “We can do our things on our own in Ibadanland, those thinking that Ibadan will burn are liars, whenever there is an issue among us, you will see that things will change once we enter the room and come out, that’s all because we know what is right

“Misunderstanding was the cause of what happened before because what we were asking before was that as a king, where is our domain?

“They have answered us that we were king in the Olubadan line because what the declaration tells us was that Otun can become king, Osi, Asipa, and Ekeerin including all of us in the Olubadan line can become king.

“There is nothing wrong in becoming the king in Olubadan line

“The question I have been asking of where is our domain has been answered.

“Only those that God destinated can become the Olubadan, we have seen some who rose to the post of the Otun and Balogun but eventually didn’t become the Olubadan

“Now that we have become the king, we have become the adviser and servant to Oba Olakulehin because he can send us to wherever he wants as our king.

“We only have one king in Ibadanland, Oba Olakulehin is our king.”

He thanked the Ibadan people and residents of Ibadan, praying that Ibadan will continue to witness tremendous achievements.