The Olubadan-designate, Oba Rasidi Ladoja, on Tuesday held a closed-door meeting with Ibadan kingmakers at his Bodija private residence.
All the kingmakers were in attendance except the Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, who was unavoidably absent.
The meeting, which lasted nearly two hours, was the first since Oba Ladoja’s return to Ibadan following the death of the immediate past Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakukehin.
Confirming the development, the Olubadan-designate’s media aide, Chief Adeola Oloko, said the deliberation was successfully held.
He said, “The meeting was believed to have observed one minute of silence in honour of the late Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who joined his ancestors on Monday, July 7, when Oba Ladoja was not in Ibadan. It was their first meeting with Ladoja in the past two and a half months.
“The delegation led by Otun Balogun, Oba Kola Adegbola, later congratulated Oba Ladoja on his emergence as the next Olubadan.
“The king makers told Oba Ladoja that the public expectation of him was very high, adding that they would continue to pray to God to give him unction to function. They later discussed issues concerning his coronation, especially as it affects cultural and ceremonial aspects.
“They envisaged that an unprecedented crowd of people would be attending the coronation, and as such, we should get everything right. They informed Kabiyesi of their willingness to serve in whatever capacity he so wishes before, during and after the coronation.
“The Olubadan-elect had appreciated the members of the council for their unanimous ratification of his candidacy as the next Olubadan, even though he was not at home. He promised them that as Olubadan, he would run a collective and all-inclusive administration that would take into consideration their opinions.
“He solicited their support and co-operation in taking Ibadan to the next level. As for the coronation ceremony, he said the Oyo State Governor, Engr Seyi Makinde and other stakeholders, like the Araba and Oluwo Afobaje, have an important role to play in the coronation.
“He added that now that he is back home, they can meet to discuss the coronation details with His Excellency, the governor. It is after this is done that the date agreed upon will be announced.
“But he assured the monarchs that the Olubadan-in-council would be carried along by him, and whoever they nominate in the state Coronation Committee will be sent to the state for approval.
“The Olubadan-in-council present at the meeting are Otun Balogun, Oba Kola Adegbola, Osi Balogun, Oba Olubunmi Isioye-Dada, Asipa Olubadan, Oba Abiodun Kola-Daisi, Asipa Balogun, Oba Abiodun Azeez. Others are Ekerin Olubadan, Oba Hamidu Ajibade, Ekerin Balogun, Oba Akeem Mobolaji Adewoyin and Ekarun Balogun, High Chief Sharafadeen Alli.
“The Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, was believed to have sent his apologies for being absent.
“High Chief Alli gave the vote of thanks. Several dignitaries visited Oba Ladoja. Former Minister, Elder Wole Oyelese, All Progressives Congress, APC gubernatorial candidate in the 2023 elections, Senator Teslim Folarin, Chiefs, businessmen, men and community leaders.”
