Former Oyo State Governor Rashidi Ladoja will make history on Friday as he ascends the throne as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, with President Bola Tinubu expected to witness the ceremonial installation at Mapo Hall.
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The 81-year-old former governor, who celebrates his birthday on Thursday, will be crowned in a ceremony that promises to attract dignitaries from across Nigeria and beyond, prompting authorities to implement extensive traffic management measures throughout Ibadan.
President Tinubu’s confirmed attendance alongside Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has necessitated comprehensive road closures and security arrangements across the ancient city. The high-profile nature of the event indicates the significance of the Olubadan stool in the Yoruba traditional hierarchy.
The organising committee announced on Tuesday that multiple routes leading to the historic venue will be restricted from 7:00 am on Friday to accommodate the expected influx of guests and ensure smooth movement for the presidential convoy.
Key access points to be temporarily blocked include Beere Junction toward Mapo Hall, Born Photo Junction toward Oja’ba, Idi-Arere Junction toward Oja’ba, and Itamerin Junction toward Mapo Hall. These closures are designed to create secure corridors for dignitaries while managing the anticipated crowds.
To mitigate inconvenience to residents and visitors, authorities have established three designated parking areas: the Ibadan North LGA Car Park near the Immigration Office in Agodi, the football field adjacent to Yemetu Police Station, and Liberty Stadium in Oke Ado.
Shuttle services will operate from the official parking locations to transport guests bearing valid passes to Mapo Hall. The committee has stated that only presidential and gubernatorial convoys will enjoy unrestricted access to the coronation venue during the ceremony.
Vendors serving the event have been instructed to arrive between 6:00 am and 6:45 am to ensure all logistical arrangements are completed before the formal proceedings begin.
Ladoja’s coronation comes following the death of Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, the 43rd Olubadan, who passed away on July 7, 2025. The succession represents continuity in the traditional leadership of one of Nigeria’s most important cities.
The new Olubadan brings extensive political experience to the traditional role, having served as Oyo State governor and maintained significant influence in Nigerian politics over several decades.
Preparatory activities commenced Monday with an interdenominational prayer service held at the Olubadan Palace in Oke-Aremo, located in Ibadan North Local Government Area. The prayer session marked the beginning of traditional rites leading up to the formal installation.
The coronation ceremony is expected to feature elaborate cultural displays showcasing the rich heritage of Ibadanland, with traditional rulers, political leaders, and cultural enthusiasts converging on the historic Mapo Hall for the momentous occasion.
Friday’s ceremony will formally complete Ladoja’s transition from political leadership to traditional authority, cementing his position as the custodian of Ibadan’s cultural heritage and traditional values.
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