The former Governor of Oyo State and the Olubadan-designate, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, on Sunday, urged the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, to enhance unity among traditional rulers in the Yoruba-speaking regions.
This appeal was made during a visit from the Ooni of Ife, Oba Ogunwusi, who came to see him at his private residence in Bodija, Ibadan, the capital of the state.
According to ETIMES, Oba Ladoja is set to be installed as the 44th Olubadan on Friday, September 26, 2025, following the passing of the 43rd Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who departed this life on Monday, July 7, 2025, at the age of 90.
Ladoja also encouraged Yoruba monarchs to prioritize the enhancement of cultural values and institutions that bring them together, rather than those that create division.
The Olubadan designate said people look up to traditional rulers not just for leadership but for inspiration and protection.
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 visit as not only historic but spiritually significant, adding that Yorubaland stood at a critical juncture where unity among traditional stools must not only be preached but practiced.
He said the Ooni had expressed support for him to ascend the Olubadan throne as far back as four years ago, noting that while the timing then was not right, divine destiny had now prevailed.
“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.”
He, therefore, thanked the Ooni for his consistent show of solidarity, especially during political and personal trials.
“All the governors that have visited me have been emphasising the unity of Yorubaland, and the unity of Yorubaland must start with the unity of the Yoruba traditional rulers first, because if the traditional rulers are united, the political class will not be able to manipulate us.”
He used the occasion to charge Ibadan Mogajis to tackle the menace of drugs in their domains, while also warning Ibadan Baales who are betraying their people to desist from it, as anyone found culpable will be dealt with accordingly.
Earlier, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Ogunwusi, described Oba Ladoja as “a father of all,” saying his ascension to the throne represented 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.”
He called on traditional rulers to shun rivalry, backbiting, and unhealthy power tussles.
“We cannot afford division among ourselves. If we fail to unite, we fail our ancestors and our people. Let us build, not break. Let us lead by example and leave legacies of peace and dignity,” he urged.
Ooni also urged Ladoja to remain focused and vigilant against detractors.
“Not everyone who pays you a visit comes with good intentions. Be discerning, Kabiyesi. Your journey to this throne was divine, and you must not be distracted by those who may envy your grace,” he warned.
