Ex Vice President Atiku Abubakar, on Tuesday, attributed his non-appearance at the coronation of the former Governor of Oyo State, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland to protocol arrangements.
Atiku, who, alongside the former Senate President, Iyorcha Ayu, former Governors of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, Cross Rivers State, Liyel Imoke and other prominent members of the African Democratic Congress, disclosed this during an interview with reporters when the team paid homage to the new Olubadan at his private residence in Ibadan, the state capital.
Ladoja received staff of office and instrument of office as the new Olubadan of Ibadanland on Friday from Governor Seyi Makinde of the state, who cut short his annual leave on Thursday to personally attend the coronation.
Ladoja became the 44th Olubadan designate following the passing of the 43rd Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who joined his ancestors on Monday, July 7, 2025, at the age of 90 years.
Speaking further, Atiku said it was not intentional not to honour Ladoja, who had played a crucial role in nation-building, during the coronation.
He said, “We are here to say congratulations to the new Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Ladoja. We regretted that we didn’t attend the coronation. It was not intentional. Protocol arrangements did not allow us to come during the coronation, not that we don’t want to come.
“We know your roles and relationship with some of us. We are here to congratulate you. Kindly accept our apologies for not making it to the coronation. We regret not attending the programme.”
Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, in a warm embrace with the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, during the visit. Photo: Ademola Adegbite
Responding, Oba Ladoja declared that he is no longer a politician, adding that he had good times with Atiku and other politicians in the country.
He told his guests that he had quit politics because he had become the Olubadan, promising to always promote justice and fairness throughout his reign.
“I’m not one of you again. I am the Olubadan of Ibadanland. So, I am for everybody now. I am no more one of you. 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.
“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,” the monarch stressed.
