Traditional Affairs: Oyo State Government Unveils One-Week Coronation Activities for Olubadan-Designate Ladoja

The ancient city of Ibadan is buzzing with anticipation as the Oyo State Government officially unveiled the one-week program of events for the coronation of its new monarch, Senator Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland. The grand coronation ceremony has been scheduled for Friday, September 26, 2025, at the iconic Mapo Hall, marking the formal ascension of the former governor to the throne.

The announcement was made by the state’s Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, after a meeting of the coronation committee, chaired by Chief Bayo Oyero, a former President-General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII). The committee has planned a series of rich cultural and religious activities to celebrate the historic event.

According to the official schedule, the events will kick off on Monday, September 22, 2025, with a solemn interdenominational service at the Olubadan Palace at Oke Aremo. This will be followed by a Cultural Day celebration on Tuesday, September 23, which will be a collaborative effort between the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes and the Oyo State Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

A highlight of the week will be the Coronation Lecture on Wednesday, September 24, to be delivered by a celebrated historian and scholar, Professor Toyin Falola. The celebrations will continue with a Mega Praise Worship at the Civic Centre, Idi Ape, on Thursday, September 25, before the climax on Friday with the official coronation ceremony.

The ascension of Oba Rashidi Ladoja, a former senator and one-time governor, has been described by many as a testament to the unique and peaceful traditional succession system of the Ibadan people. His coronation follows the passing of his predecessor, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, on July 7, 2025. The week-long celebration is expected to attract dignitaries, traditional rulers, and Ibadan indigenes from across Nigeria and the diaspora, all gathered to witness the official installation of their new king.