Olubadan Coronation: Prominent Ibadan indigenes mobilised for weeklong celebration

The Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) has rallied illustrious sons and daughters of the land for a weeklong series of festivities to herald the coronation of Oba Rashidi Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland. The grand coronation is slated for Friday, September 26, 2025.

In preparation, the CCII President-General, Chief Ajeniyi Ajewole, inaugurated a special planning committee co-chaired by two renowned Ibadan businessmen, Chief Dotun Sanusi and Chief Adegboye Adegoke. It was also revealed that several prominent Ibadan indigenes have contributed generously, with some donating as much as ₦10 million each, to ensure the celebrations are befitting of the throne.

While the Oyo State Government has constituted an official coronation committee under the chairmanship of Chief Adebayo Oyero, the CCII insists that Oba Ladoja’s stature—as a successful businessman, former governor, senator, and revered statesman—demands a more expansive celebration beyond the state’s programme.

The week of events begins on Monday, September 22, with interfaith prayers at the Olubadan Palace, Oke-Aremo, followed by a stage play on Arusa, progenitor of the Olubadan dynasty, at Apex Hall, Yidi-Agodi.

Tuesday, September 23, is set aside for a cultural day at the Olubadan Stadium. On Wednesday, September 24, the inaugural Olubadan Coronation Lecture will be delivered by Professor Toyin Falola at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan.

Thursday, September 25, coinciding with Oba Ladoja’s 81st birthday, begins with Islamic prayers at the palace at 10 a.m., and continues with a mega praise and worship session at the Civic Centre, Agodi, from 2 p.m. The high point of the week comes on Friday, September 26, with the coronation ceremony at Mapo Hall at 9 a.m., to be followed by a grand reception at the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium at 3 p.m.

The celebrations extend into Sunday, September 28, with a thanksgiving service at the Church of Ascension, Bodija, and a civic reception at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, at 2 p.m.

Further observances include a Jumat service at the Ibadan Central Mosque, Oja’ba, on Friday, October 3, and traditional rites by the Isese worshippers at Ose Meji Temple, Oja’ba, on Saturday, October 4.