The Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has reminded newly elevated senior chiefs in the Olubadan chieftaincy line that royalty is a responsibility anchored on service and compassion.
He spoke on Friday during their elevation ceremony held at the Olubadan Palace in Oke-Aremo, Ibadan.
He reflected on how the idea of royalty has shifted over the years and urged the chiefs to embrace a more people-centered approach.
In his words, chieftaincy should never be an excuse for showmanship or the oppression of the vulnerable.
Instead, he described it as a platform to improve the well-being of those who rely on traditional institutions for support.
Royalty, the monarch said, is now defined by what leaders can contribute to their communities and how they help ease the hardships of ordinary people.
Oba Ladoja explained that those elevated have the influence and capacity to make meaningful impact, which is why the expectations placed on them remain high.
The new Abese Olubadan is veteran journalist Oloye Lekan Alabi. Senior Chief Ismaila Akinade Fijabi is now the Maye Olubadan, while Senior Chief Saka Fola Lapade becomes the Ekefa Olubadan.
Former Senate Leader Teslim Folarin was named the new Agbaakin Olubadan. Senior Chief Muibi Ademola Adewuyi now holds the title of Aare Alaasa Olubadan, with Senior Chief Raufu Delesolu and Senior Chief Hammed Lanihun as the new Ikolaba Olubadan and Asaaju Olubadan.
The ceremony witnessed a large turnout of dignitaries which further entrenched the significance of the occasion and the weight of the roles entrusted to the newly promoted chiefs.