Olubadan-designate and former Oyo State Governor, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has urged the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, to intensify efforts at fostering unity among Yoruba traditional rulers.
Ladoja made the call on Sunday while receiving the Ooni, who visited him at his Bodija residence in Ibadan ahead of his coronation.
Oba Ladoja is set to be installed as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland on Friday, September 26, 2025, following the passing of Oba Owolabi Olakulehin on July 7 at the age of 90.
The Olubadan-designate charged Yoruba monarchs to focus on values and institutions that strengthen cultural bonds rather than divisions.
He said people look up to traditional rulers for both leadership and inspiration.
He said, “If we all come together with our ideas, with yours, we will have our way, and as God will have it, the president of the country is our son, and he has even assured me he will be present at my coronation ceremony.
“The experience of governance is different from the experience used in political intrigues and the business circle. I don’t have the experience Ooni has because ten years on the throne is no joke. By the grace of God, you will be one of my teachers. I have said this to all the obas who have visited me.
“I want to use this opportunity to urge the Ooni to continue in his role as a unifier among Yoruba monarchs. His influence is beyond Ile-Ife; it spreads across Yorubaland, and we must tap into that for the growth of our people.”
Ladoja described the Ooni’s visit as historic and spiritually significant, saying Yorubaland was at a critical juncture where unity among traditional rulers must be seen in practice, not just in words.
He recalled that the Ooni had supported his ascension to the throne four years ago but noted that the timing was only made possible now by divine providence.
“He wanted me to become Olubadan four years ago, but I told him then that it is only God who places one on the throne at the right time. Today, I am grateful to God and also to Kabiyesi Ooni for standing by me in my most trying times.”
Earlier, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Ogunwusi, described Ladoja as “a father of all,” whose ascension represents a turning point for Yoruba traditional leadership.
“Oba Ladoja is not just a leader; he is a father figure whose wealth of experience, calmness, and depth of wisdom are needed now more than ever.
“Ibadan is not just another Yoruba city. It is a cradle of strength and resilience. Some Oonis once stayed here, and that places this land in an enviable spiritual and cultural position.”
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