A member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Aderemi Oseni, has described the nomination of a former Oyo State governor, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland as a divine arrangement and a historic blessing destined to usher in peace, wisdom, and progress for the ancient city.
Oseni, who represents Ibarapa East/Ido Federal Constituency, and chairs the House Committee on Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA), stated this in a statement released on Tuesday by his media aide, Idowu Ayodele, and made available to journalists in Ibadan.
The lawmaker praised the Ibadan Traditional Council for maintaining the integrity of the age-long succession process, noting that the Olubadan chieftaincy system remains a model of peaceful and hierarchical leadership transition in Nigeria.
He said, “Oba Ladoja’s rise to the Olubadan throne is not only historic but divinely orchestrated. He embodies the qualities of a royal father the people can rally behind—experienced, respected, and deeply rooted in our cultural values.”
Describing the development as a turning point in the city’s history, the lawmaker noted that Ladoja’s vast experience in governance, tradition, and human relations would further elevate the cultural and political standing of Ibadanland and the entire Yoruba race.
“This is a moment of joy not only for Ibadanland but for the entire Yoruba people. The nomination of Oba Ladoja signals a new dawn, one rooted in wisdom, peace, and unity,” he added.
The nomination of Oba Ladoja follows the demise of the late Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who passed away on Monday, July 7, 2025. The kingmakers had, on Monday, unanimously nominated the former governor in line with the traditional chieftaincy succession system, pending final ratification by Governor Seyi Makinde.
Oseni called on all sons and daughters of Ibadanland, at home and in the diaspora, to rally behind the incoming monarch, adding that with collective support, the city’s best days lie ahead under the anticipated reign of Oba Ladoja.
