Olubadan of Ibadanland Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja and former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar
I’m no longer one of you, Olubadan tells Atiku, El-rufai
The newly crowned Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, on Tuesday received former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar and other key opposition figures at his Ibadan residence, where he publicly distanced himself from partisan politics, declaring that his focus is now on traditional leadership.
Atiku led a high-powered delegation that included former Senate President Iyorchia Ayu, former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, former Cross River Governor Liyel Imoke, and other prominent members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to pay a congratulatory visit to the monarch.
The visit came four days after Oba Ladoja’s historic coronation as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, a grand ceremony attended by President Bola Tinubu, Governor Seyi Makinde, four other state governors, top monarchs, and dignitaries from across the country. Atiku had been notably absent at the event.
Speaking to journalists after the visit, Atiku explained that his failure to attend the coronation was due to unavoidable protocol arrangements, not a lack of respect for the monarch.
“We are here to congratulate the new Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Ladoja. We regret that we didn’t attend the coronation. It was not intentional,” Atiku said. “Protocol arrangements did not allow us to come during the coronation, not that we didn’t want to come. We know your role and relationship with many of us. Kindly accept our apologies.”
In his response, Oba Ladoja, a former governor and senator, made it clear that his days as a political actor were over.
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“I’m not one of you again. I am the Olubadan of Ibadanland. So, I am for everybody now. I’m no longer a politician,” he declared, drawing laughter and applause from those present.
He reflected on his long political journey with many of the visitors, recalling their shared experiences in the Social Democratic Party (SDP), years in exile, and later in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). He also mentioned his eventual move to the Accord Party, which became influential in Oyo politics.
“Now that I am Olubadan, I’m no more interested in anything other than the Olubadan. You are welcome to my house,” he added firmly.
Oba Ladoja also used the occasion to restate his commitment to justice, fairness, and service to his people, promising to lead Ibadanland with wisdom and integrity.
“All the religious leaders have said the only thing leaders can do is to promote justice and fairness. I will serve my people — Ibadan, Oyo State, Africa, and the world. I will depend on your support and advice,” he said.
The meeting ended on a cordial note, with Atiku and his entourage offering their congratulations and pledging support for the monarch’s reign.
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