The hallowed hall of the Oke-Aremo Palace of the Olubadan of Ibadan bore witness to a remarkable occasion on Tuesday, 16 December, 2025 as a delegation of esteemed dignitaries, led by the illustrious Chief Wole Olanipekun, OFR, CFR, SAN, FNIALS, D. Litt (h.c.), former Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, University of Ibadan and current Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, University of Lagos, paid homage to the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja.
The entourage included Dr Festus Adedayo, Dr Gani Adeniran, Architect Oladunni, Professor Ilesanmi and Asiwaju Adebayo Ojo, SAN, who accompanied Olanipekun on the historic visit.
The occasion was a tribute to the profound respect and admiration that the legal luminary and his entourage have for the monarch, and it was a day that will be etched in Ibadanland’s history.
Chief Olanipekun’s words were music to the ears as he extolled the virtues of Oba Ladoja, describing him as a “King of a kind that has never been witnessed in the history of Ibadanland”. The Senior Advocate of Nigeria’s assertion is not an exaggeration but a statement of fact, as Oba Ladoja has proven himself to be a paragon of excellence, wisdom and leadership.
The Olubadan’s elevation to the throne is a culmination of his years of service to Ibadanland and Nigeria as a whole. As a former Governor of Oyo State, he demonstrated a keen sense of vision, dedication and commitment to the development of the state and its people. Significant achievements marked his tenure and his legacy continues to inspire and motivate others.
Chief Olanipekun’s reference to Oba Ladoja as an “Atobatele ki o to j’Oba” is a fitting tribute to the monarch’s stature. Indeed, Oba Ladoja is a “King among kings”, a leader who has earned the respect and admiration of his peers and the people of Ibadanland and beyond.
Chief Olanipekun’s statement that, “Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR are both Kingmakers in history known to me who have also become Kings” is a poignant observation, which highlights the remarkable journeys of the two titans—Oba Senator Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, now a revered monarch and Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, who has ascended to the Presidency of Nigeria. In a nod to their indelible marks on Nigerian politics, Olanipekun underscores their evolution from kingmakers to leaders of great influence. Oba Ladoja’s ascension to the throne is a tribute to his enduring legacy, while President Tinubu’s leadership at the helm of Nigeria’s highest office is a culmination of his years of service and statesmanship. Their trajectories serve as a tribute to the power of vision, resilience and leadership. One thing is clear: these leaders have etched their names in history, forever to be remembered as architects of their own destinies.
Ibadanland and friends continue to celebrate the reign of excellence under Oba Ladoja. It is, therefore, imperative to recognise the significance of his ascension to the throne. He is a symbol of hope, a beacon of light and a classic example of leadership excellence. His reign continues to serve as a reminder that true greatness is not measured by wealth or power, but by the profound impact one has on the lives of others.
In conclusion, the good and progressive members of The Progressive Forum, Ibadan (TPFI) salute Chief Wole Olanipekun’s fitting comments on Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, and his remarkable achievements. May Kabiyesi’s reign be long and prosperous, and may he continue to encourage and lead Ibadanland to greater heights.
- Tunji Oladejo, who writes from the University of Ibadan, is the Chairman of The Progressive Forum, Ibadan (TPFI) via oladejo65@gmail.com (08077284442)
