Olubadan

Kidnappers Demand ₦1bn Ransom for 20 Oyo NYSC Members

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Kidnappers who abducted 20 prospective National Youth Service Corps members travelling from Oyo State to their orientation camps have demanded ₦1 billion for their release. The parents of the victims disclosed this on Saturday when they visited the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, at his residence in Bodija, Ibadan, alongside the Oyo State Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Abimbola, and the Aseyin of Iseyinland, Oba Sefiu Adeyeri. The 20 graduates were travelling from Ibadan to their NYSC orientation camps on Thursday when gunmen attacked the two buses conveying them along the Owerri-Onitsha Road in Umunoha, Imo State. According to the parents, the abductors have been contacting them through the phones of the victims and demanded ₦50 million for each person, amounting to ₦1 billion. “They have been calling us since yesterday (Friday) with a demand for N50m ransom each. They are threatening that anything untoward will happen to our children if we fail to heed to their request. “There is no way we can raise such an amount at this period. Baba, kindly assist us. Don’t let them kill our children,” the parents pleaded. The families appealed to the Olubadan and the police to intervene and secure the immediate release of the victims. Responding, Ladoja assured the parents that efforts were underway to rescue the victims safely. “I want to assure that your children would be rescued unharmed. We will relate whatever information we gather to you. The Police are working round the clock to secure their rescue. Don’t worry yourself, police are up to the task, and nothing would happen to your children,” he said. Similarly, the Oyo State Commissioner of Police said he had contacted his Imo State counterpart over the incident and was assured that the victims would be rescued unharmed. “I had already contacted Imo State CP. We have been talking since the day of incident, and he assured me that the victims would be rescued unhurt,” Abimbola said. The police did not disclose whether any ransom had been paid or provide further details about the ongoing rescue operation.

Alaafin Absent As Olubadan Emerges Chairman Of Oyo Council Of Obas, Chiefs After 15 Years

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  The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, was absent on Thursday as the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, emerged chairman of the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs following its inauguration by Governor Seyi Makinde. The inauguration, which took place at the House of Chiefs, Agodi Secretariat, Ibadan, marked the reconvening of the council after 15 years of inactivity. Oba Ladoja was appointed chairman of the council for a two-year tenure, in line with an earlier agreement by the three foremost traditional rulers in the state to rotate the chairmanship. Daily Independent Reporter who covered the event report that although the Alaafin of Oyo is a co-chairman of the council, he was noticeably absent from the inauguration ceremony. Speaking before inaugurating the council, Governor Makinde said the reconstitution of the council was not an achievement but a necessity, stressing that the traditional institution remains critical to peace, stability and development in the state. He explained that he had met with the Alaafin of Oyo, the Olubadan of Ibadanland and the Soun of Ogbomosho, Oba Ghandi Olaoye, and that they unanimously agreed to a rotational chairmanship arrangement with a two-year tenure. Makinde said: “The Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs last met in 2011. For close to seven years since this administration came into office, the easiest thing would have been to encourage division. But we chose unity because many of our achievements can be traced to the support of our traditional institutions. “No matter how difficult an issue is, we always resolve it with my three fathers – the Alaafin of Oyo, the Olubadan of Ibadanland and the Soun of Ogbomosho. We agreed that the rotation would begin with the Olubadan of Ibadanland, and on that basis, I hereby inaugurate the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs with the Olubadan as chairman for two years.” The governor lamented that a state reputed for leadership had operated without a functional council for over a decade. “For 15 years, we have not had a council of Obas and Chiefs. Without a council, what we have is an ad-hoc arrangement, which has been the case since 2011. Governance is more effective when traditional institutions are properly structured and strengthened,” he said. Makinde also revealed that the law establishing the council was passed by the State House of Assembly and signed into law on August 14, 2025. Earlier, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Hon. Ademola Ojo, described the inauguration as a testament to the enduring relevance of traditional institutions as custodians of culture, values and communal harmony. Ojo said traditional rulers had remained pillars of peace, moral authority and grassroots development, complementing government efforts across the state. “This council last existed in 2011. Its re-inauguration underscores the commitment of Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration to strengthen collaboration between government and traditional institutions. “Governance is most effective when modern administration works hand in hand with time-honoured traditional leadership,” he said. He added that the council would serve as an advisory body on peace-building, conflict resolution, cultural preservation, policy formulation and community development. In his remarks after the inauguration, Oba Ladoja assured residents of the council’s commitment to peace, unity and development across the state. “This inauguration is not an achievement; it is the beginning of work. We are not in competition with one another, and we are not here to pursue personal interests. Our focus is to ensure that our domains are safe and peaceful and that Oyo State continues to make progress,” he said. According to the Olubadan, the council is about collective responsibility and cooperation for the good of the state. “This is not about any individual. It is about bringing people together and working together for the good of all,” he added.

Seven Days Of Oro Rites Govern Alaafin’s Actions, Not Ego – Yoruba Chief Dismisses Claims Of Snubbing Olubadan

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  IBADAN – THE Atóbaáse of Yorubaland, Chief Babajide Agunbiade, has dismissed claims that the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade I, disrespected the Olubadan of Ibadanland or any other Yoruba monarch during a recent inter-faith gathering in Oyo State, explaining that the monarch’s conduct was dictated by centuries-old sacred oro rites. In an open letter on Tuesday addressing the controversy, Agunbiade said public speculation suggesting a “snub” was a misreading of the ancient traditions governing the Alaafin’s stool. “The Alaafin is bound by sacred oaths and ritual observances that predate modern Nigeria,” he said. The Yoruba chief explained that the Alaafin is currently observing the seven-day oro rites, a traditional practice that imposes strict limitations on physical conduct and public interactions. During this period, certain gestures of greeting, including standing to receive visitors, are prohibited, irrespective of the visitor’s rank or prominence. “At no time has the Alaafin shown disrespect to the Olubadan or any other traditional ruler,” Agunbiade wrote. “Any assumption of discourtesy ignores the sacred obligations that every occupant of the Oyo throne must uphold.” He emphasized that these rites are neither optional nor negotiable. “To expect otherwise would be to demand that the Alaafin compromise the sanctity of an institution that has existed for over a thousand years,” Agunbiade added. The Atóbaáse called on the Yoruba public to reflect on the importance of tradition, hierarchy, and ancestral institutions. He warned that interpreting the monarch’s conduct through the lens of social media commentary or temporary public opinion risks undermining centuries of Yoruba civilization. “The Alaafin is not merely an individual,” he said. “He is the living embodiment of an ancient institution charged with preserving Yoruba culture, diplomacy, and governance. Fidelity to tradition is paramount.” Agunbiade also recalled the historical significance of the Oyo Empire, which between the 14th and 19th centuries unified vast Yoruba territories, institutionalized governance, and projected cultural and military influence across what is now Nigeria and the Republic of Benin. “To respect the Alaafin is to respect this history, not as an act of superiority over other thrones, but as acknowledgment of distinct roles within our shared Yoruba heritage,” the letter noted. The Yoruba leader stressed that the Alaafin seeks peace, harmony, and mutual respect among all traditional rulers and harbors no personal ill will toward any king. “Tradition must not be misunderstood. Fidelity must not be mistaken for arrogance. Silence must not be misread as hostility,” he added. In conclusion, the Atóbaáse expressed confidence in the Alaafin’s ability to safeguard the integrity of the Oyo throne and Yoruba traditions while urging the public to support and protect the preservation of ancient practices like the oro rites.

Olubadan to Elevate Makinde’s Brother, Eight Other Chiefs Friday

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  The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, will on Friday elevate Governor Seyi Makinde’s elder brother, Olumuyiwa Makinde, and eight other chiefs in the Otun Olubadan line. Makinde, an Ibadan-based lawyer, will move from Aare Onibon to Gbonka Olubadan, while businessman and engineer Dotun Sanusi will be promoted from Ajia to Bada Olubadan. A statement by the Olubadan’s media aide, Adeola Oloko, on Wednesday said the ceremony will begin at 11 am at the Oke-Aremo Palace in Ibadan North Local Government Area, with members of the Olubadan-in-Council expected to attend. Oba Ladoja performed his first official traditional function on November 7, when he elevated five chiefs in the Olubadan line. Those elevated at the time included Osi Olubadan, Oba Eddy Oyewole-Foko, who became Otun Olubadan; Asipa Olubadan, Oba Kola Daisi, now Osi Olubadan; and Ekerin Olubadan, Oba Hamidu Ajibade, promoted to Asipa Olubadan. Others were Oba Muritala Akande, who moved from Ekarun to Ekerin Olubadan, and Chief Kola Babalola, who rose from Abese to Ekarun Olubadan. Oba Ladoja ascended the throne following the death of the 43rd Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who died on July 7, 2025, at the age of 90. According to Wednesday’s statement, House of Representatives member Akin Alabi will move from Jagun to Ajia Olubadan, while promotion from Mogaji to the competitive Jagun title has been suspended until further notice. The statement read, “The affected chiefs include an Ibadan-based lawyer and the state Governor’s elder brother, Olumuyiwa Makinde, who would be promoted from Aare Onibon to Gbonka Olubadan, while the renowned engineer and business titan, Dotun Sanusi, would be promoted from Ajia to Bada Olubadan. “Similarly, House of Representatives member, Akin Alabi, would be elevated from Jagun to Ajia Olubadan. “The promotion from Mogaji to the highly competitive Jagun Olubadan title would not hold until further notice. “The rest of the Chiefs due for promotion are as follows: Chief Dauda Gbadamosi from Aare Ago to Ayingun Olubadan; Chief William Akande from Lagunna to Aare Ago Olubadan, Chief Oluyinka Akande from Oota to Lagunna Olubadan, Chief Olufemi Ogunwale from Aare-egbe Omo to Oota Olubadan “Chief Wasiu Aderoju Alaadorin from Gbonka to Aare-egbe Omo Olubadan and Chief Abiola Anlamole from Badato Aare Onibon Olubadan.”  

I’m Not One of You Again, Olubadan Tells Atiku

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The 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rasheed Ladoja, revealed that he had withdrawn from active politics to focus on his role as monarch. Oba Ladoja stated this when Ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar, alongside a former Senate President, Iyorchia Ayu, ex-governors Nasir El-Rufai (Kaduna), Liyel Imoke (Cross River), and other prominent politicians, paid him homage at his private residence in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, following his coronation. He stated, “I’m not one of you again. I am the Olubadan of Ibadanland. So, I am for everybody now. I am not a politician anymore. Welcome to my house. “Now that I am the Olubadan, I am no more interested in any other than the Olubadan. You are welcome to my house.” Recounting his political journey with Atiku, he explained, “We started from the Social Democratic Party, we were in exile together, we were in the Peoples Democratic Party together. When I wanted to create an identity, I went to the Accord Party, which became a household name here. I know you politicians have a way of coming back. “All the religious leaders said that the only thing the leaders can do is to promote justice and fairness. I will serve my people—Ibadan people, the state, Africa and the world at large. I will depend on your support and advice.” Citybuzznews reports that Ladoja was officially presented with the staff and instrument of office last Friday by Governor Seyi Makinde, who cut short his annual leave to personally attend the historic event. The event marked the grand finale of activities celebrating former Oyo State governor, Senator Rashidi Ladoja’s ascension to the revered throne of Olubadan of Ibadanland. The coronation concluded a week-long celebration that featured a cultural day, a coronation lecture, a praise and worship service, and the monarch’s 81st birthday, which was celebrated in grand style at Liberty Stadium The new Olubadan ascended the throne following the passing of the 43rd Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who died on July 7, 2025, at the age of 90.

Aare Olayinka Segelu Hails Ladoja’s Coronation, Says New Olubadan’s Reign Will Usher Prosperity

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  Governorship hopeful and chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Aare Olayinka Segelu, has congratulated His Imperial Majesty, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, on his coronation as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland. In a statement issued on Sunday, Segelu, a Germany-based businessman and philanthropist, described Oba Ladoja’s ascension to the revered throne as a fulfilment of destiny and a monumental blessing to Ibadanland, Oyo State, and the Yoruba nation at large. He recalled the monarch’s enviable track record as a former Senator and former Governor of Oyo State, noting that his wealth of experience in governance, politics, and business would guide him in his new role as custodian of Ibadan tradition and culture. “Oba Rashidi Ladoja has always been a man of the people, a leader who combines wisdom with compassion. His reign as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland will undoubtedly usher in peace, unity, and prosperity for our land. Ibadan is blessed to have a king whose legacy of service to humanity already speaks volumes,” Segelu said. He prayed for God’s continued guidance, good health, and strength for the new monarch, while urging the people of Ibadanland to rally round Oba Ladoja to ensure a successful and impactful reign. Segelu also expressed confidence that the new Olubadan’s reign would further strengthen Ibadan’s role in Yoruba history and Nigerian politics, describing the coronation as “a new dawn for Ibadanland.”

OLUBADAN: “Your Suffering Has Yielded Progress, Growth – Tinubu Tells Nigerians, As Makinde Presents Instruments Of Office To Oba Ladoja •••Oba Ladoja Demands For Creation Of Ibadan State

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  IBADAN – THE President, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu has commended Nigerians for their resilience and patience in the face of recent economic and social challenges, assuring the nation that their sacrifices are not in vain and are already yielding progress and growth. Speaking on Friday at the coronation ceremony of the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, held at the historic Mapo Hall in Ibadan, the President acknowledged the perseverance of citizens through difficult times, while promising better days ahead. “I know the times have been hard, but your suffering is not without purpose. The path we are on is already bearing fruits of progress, and I can assure you that we are laying a solid foundation for a brighter and more prosperous future,” Tinubu said. While addressing the large gathering of traditional rulers, political leaders, and citizens, the President paid tribute to Oba Rashidi Ladoja, describing him as “a monarch of wisdom, peace, and vision.” The president said Ladoja had faced many challenges as governor which led to his removal, adding that he was happy that the former governor was reinstated. “Let me salute the lucky Imperial Majesty, Oba Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja Arusa 1st. And all other traditional rulers.” “Today is an important occasion. I am happy to witness the history and your coronation. It is a great honor and moment of history that you ascend the throne of your forebears. It is my honor. “I take this opportunity to salute former governors, Donald Duke, Olagunsoye Oyinlola, Gbenga Daniel.” “This moment is not for long speeches. To many of you here present today, I am honored.” “Kabiyesi Oba Rashidi Ladoja is not only a man of immense experience but one deeply loved by his people. His ascension to the throne marks a new era of hope and unity for Ibadanland.” “I have no doubt that under his leadership, Ibadan will witness even greater development,” Tinubu stated. He further reiterated his commitment to working with traditional institutions and state governments to ensure peace, security, and economic revitalisation across the country. Earlier in his remarks, Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, congratulated the newly installed monarch, pledging the full support of his administration to the Olubadan in delivering on his responsibilities. “This occasion is a reminder of our rich heritage and the stability of our traditional institution. Kabiyesi Ladoja is a symbol of continuity and progress.” “The Oyo State Government will stand firmly behind him in promoting peace and development across Ibadanland,” Makinde said. The governor also called on all residents and stakeholders in Ibadan to rally behind the new monarch, adding that unity among the people will fast-track the city’s socio-economic growth. In his acceptance speech, Oba Rashidi Ladoja expressed deep appreciation for development, highlighting the need for renewed commitment to Ibadan’s development. He also used the platform to make a passionate appeal for the creation of Ibadan State out of the present Oyo State for accelerated development. “Your Excellency, I have been inundated with calls by our people to inform you of our demand for Ibadan State, out of the present Oyo State, for accelerated development.” “It will gladden our hearts to see Ibadan State created with your maximum support, Mr. President,” the monarch said. Addressing issues of social concern, the Olubadan vowed to tackle the menace of street urchins (popularly known as area boys) within the city. “We are irrevocably committed to reducing the cases of area boys in Ibadan. Soon, we shall launch a multi-billion Naira Economic Development Programme to revive companies that once thrived here and create jobs for our youths.” Reflecting on his long journey to the throne, the monarch described it as a divine journey, not driven by power or wealth, but by destiny. “It is not by power, influence, connection, or money that we are where we are today. I thank God for guiding me from the starting line as Mogaji in 1992 to this point.” He pledged to be a father to all, irrespective of religion, tribe, or political affiliation, and called on all arms of traditional leadership in Ibadan to join hands in ensuring peace and development. “As Olubadan of Ibadanland, I pledge to promote peace, love, and unity among our diverse peoples. I shall not do it alone, I have the full backing of the Olubadan-in-Council, our local chiefs, and titleholders,” he added. The coronation event was graced by Senator Ademola Adeleke of Osun State, Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, and Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi, among others. Traditional rulers like the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III, Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi represented by Olori Ashley Ogunwusi and His Royal Highness Obalufe of Ife, Oba Adediwura, the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, Soun of Ogbomosho, His Imperial Majesty Oba Ghandi Olaoye and the Oluwo of Iwo.

Olubadan: Alaafin, Soun, Gbenga Daniel, Amosun, Oluwo, Other Dignitaries Arrive Mapo Hall for Ladoja’s Coronation

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Prominent dignitaries from across South West and Nigeria are currently gathered at Mapo Hall, Ibadan, for the coronation of the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, Arusa I. The historic event has attracted eminent personalities, political leaders, traditional rulers, and captains of industry. Among those already in attendance are former governors of Ogun State, Senator Ibikunle Amosun and Otunba Gbenga Daniel, as well as Senator Sharafadeen Alli, representing Oyo South Senatorial District. The Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrosheed Akanbi; the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Afolabi Ghandi Olaoye; Onpetu of Ijeru, Oba Sunday Oyediran; Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade; and Owa Abokun of Ijesaland, Oba Adesuyi Haastrup have also arrived to join other prominent traditional rulers at the ceremony. The wife of the Ooni of Ife, Olori Ashley Ogunwusi, is also at the venue, alongside the Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Edo and Delta States, Alhaji Dauda Akinola, and members of the Olubadan-in-Council. Deputy governor of Oyo State, Barr. Bayo Lawal; former deputy governor of Oyo State, Amb. Taofeek Arapaja; former First Lady of Oyo State and one of the wives of the new Olubadan, Mrs Mutiat Ladoja; members of the House of Representatives from Oyo State, members of the Olubadan-in Council, traditional rulers, executive members of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Representatives of professional bodies, are also on ground to honour the new monarch. The coronation proceedings are ongoing, featuring cultural displays, traditional rites, and prayers. Thousands of indigenes and well-wishers continue to troop into Mapo Hall, as Ibadan celebrates the formal installation of Oba Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.

Aare Olayinka Segelu Mourns Late Olubadan, Hails Monarch’s Dignified Reign

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  Aare Olayinka Segelu, a German-based politician, prominent chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and a governorship aspirant in Oyo State, has joined other well-meaning Nigerians in mourning the death of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, describing it as “the end of a noble chapter in Ibadan’s royal history.” In a statement made available on Tuesday, Segelu paid his tribute to the late monarch, praising his short but stabilizing reign and describing him as “a father figure who carried the culture of Ibadan with silent strength and steady grace.” “Kabiyesi may have spent only a year on the throne, but his impact will echo for generations. He reminded us that leadership is not always about the length of days, but the depth of one’s service,” Segelu stated. The Olubadan, who ascended the throne on July 12, 2024, passed away in the early hours of Monday, July 7, 2025, just two days after his 90th birthday. He was the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, succeeding the late Oba Lekan Balogun. Segelu, an Ibadan native whose political roots run deep in the state, noted that the royal stool of the Olubadan represents more than authority, it is the soul of Ibadan’s unity and continuity. “The Olubadan stool is the symbol of our heritage and resilience. In Oba Olakulehin, we saw a monarch who understood this weight and carried it with dignity and devotion,” he said. He also urged the Olubadan-in-Council, the Ibadan people, and Oyo State residents to honour the late monarch’s memory by promoting peace and preserving the legacy of the institution. “Ibadan’s succession model remains one of the most respected in Nigeria. It is transparent, it is peaceful, and it is dignified. Let us continue in that spirit, and ensure that this transition brings unity, not division.” Segelu expressed his condolences to the late monarch’s family, the traditional council, and Governor Seyi Makinde, calling on all Ibadan indigenes to reflect on the values of the throne and the virtues the late Oba represented. “He was the one that confirmed my chieftaincy titles both as Aare Akinrogun of Igbo-Elerinland and Environs and Asiwaju Ilu of Olosunde and Environs. “In losing Oba Olakulehin, we are not just saying goodbye to a king; we are closing a chapter written in wisdom, humility, and silent sacrifice. May his soul rest in perfect peace,” Segelu concluded.

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