By Feyisetan Hamzat | Benny News Hub | Ibadan
The Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, has firmly clarified that his traditional authority is limited strictly to Ibadanland and does not extend to Yorubaland or the entire Oyo State.
The monarch made this known on Sunday while speaking at a Coronation Luncheon organised in his honour by the Ibadan Foundation at Kakanfo Hotel, Ibadan, to commemorate his ascension to the throne. According to Oba Ladoja, his role and responsibilities are clearly defined by law and tradition, covering the 11 local government areas that make up Ibadanland, with an estimated population of about four million people.
Citing the Oyo State Chiefs Law and the Ibadan Chieftaincy Declaration, the Olubadan stressed that he would not be distracted by titles or claims that fall outside the boundaries of his lawful jurisdiction, noting that the demands of leadership within Ibadanland alone are enormous.
Speaking before a gathering of prominent Ibadan sons and daughters, including Asiwaju Bode Amoo, Chief Bayo Oyero, the Otun Balogun, Oba Kola Adegbola, and members of the Iyalode group, the first-class monarch outlined key challenges confronting the ancient city and steps already taken to address them.
Oba Ladoja disclosed that during the recent protests surrounding the Ibadan Circular Road project, his palace became the first point of contact for affected residents. He said he promptly briefed Governor Seyi Makinde on the concerns raised, describing dialogue and lawful engagement as essential to resolving such issues.
He also identified land grabbing as a major concern in Ibadanland, revealing that an Anti-Land Grabbing Committee has been constituted to tackle the menace. While awaiting the committee’s report, the monarch assured that land reforms are already underway to restore order and protect communal and individual property rights.
On security, Oba Ladoja said mechanisms are in place to respond swiftly to breaches within Ibadanland. According to him, the palace understands the appropriate authorities to engage and where responsibility lies whenever security challenges arise.
In addition, the Olubadan announced the establishment of the Olubadan Economic and Investment Committee, saddled with the responsibility of advising the throne on how to revive long-abandoned industries across Ibadanland. He noted that revitalising these industries would create employment opportunities for youths and stimulate economic growth in the city.
The monarch urged Ibadan indigenes to draw inspiration from the city’s proud history, describing Ibadanland as a place built on bravery, nobility, and hard work. He said the rich heritage should serve as a catalyst for progress and unity rather than complacency.
Oba Ladoja also recalled moments of pan-Yoruba solidarity, referencing the occasion when the Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty Oba Babatunde Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, conferred the chieftaincy title of Okanlomo Oodua on Engineer Jubril Dotun Sanusi. He noted that traditional rulers from Oyo State and beyond attended the ceremony, during which Chief (Mrs) Latinwo was also installed as Yeye Bobagunwa Oodua.
The Olubadan concluded by reaffirming his commitment to focused leadership, lawful governance, and the socio-economic advancement of Ibadanland.
E-signed
Adeola Oloko
Media Aide,
Olubadan of Ibadanland
