Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, Arusa I, has declared that there is nothing else for him to personally achieve after becoming the Olubadan.
The former governor of Oyo State and a former federal lawmaker made this known when he received former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, at his Bodija, Ibadan residence, on Tuesday.
The former vice president paid a congratulatory visit to Oba Ladoja on the occasion of his recent coronation as the 44th Olubadan.
He was in company of a former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Chairman, Senator Iyorcha Ayu; former Cross River State governor, Senator Liyel Imoke, and former Kaduna State governor, Malam Nasir el-Rufai.
The former vice-president used the occasion of the visit to tender an apology for his absence at the historic coronation ceremony, citing unavoidable logistical and protocol challenges.
Oba Ladoja told the visitors that his new passion is the development of Ibadan and Oyo State, declaring that his throne is for humanity and not politics.
He reaffirmed his withdrawal from partisan politics, stressing that his foremost responsibility on the throne is to serve humanity with fairness and justice.
Oba Ladoja, however, recalled his decades of personal and professional relationship with the former vice president and other members of the delegation.
He disclosed that, while he can no longer participate in politics, he cherished the shared experiences of his political journey.
Oba Ladoja, reflecting on his relationship with the visitors, said:
“My dear friends, welcome. Even though I am no longer a politician, the ties we share remain strong.
“I was indeed surprised when I did not see some of you at the coronation, especially as I had followed the guest list and expected your presence.
“When I was told it was due to logistical constraints, I understood, for such matters are often beyond one’s control. There is nothing to forgive, for it was not deliberate,” Ladoja stated.
He went on to recall how Alhaji Atiku Abubakar was the first to inform him of the passing of the last Olubadan, noting their shared anticipation of his eventual ascension to the throne.
The Olubadan also reminisced on his long-standing friendships with Senator Ayu, Senator Imoke, and Malam el-Rufai, recounting moments from their days in politics, the Senate, and even predictions about his becoming a governor.
“Now that I am Olubadan, I am no longer entitled to be anything else. My task is to serve my people. I have just passed 81, and the rest of my years will be devoted to Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria, Africa and indeed humanity.
“Religious leaders have always said that what is expected of a leader is fairness and justice, and this I intend to uphold,” he said.
Oba Ladoja expressed gratitude for the visit, and assured his guests that he would make all his friends and well-wishers proud.
This was as he also pledged to maintain close contact with them, promising future visits in appreciation.
Oba Ladoja further assured that, during his reign, Ibadan would continue to pursue peace, prosperity and justice for its people.
The former vice president had used the occasion of the visit to Abubakar, accompanied by had come to personally congratulate the Olubadan following his recent coronation.
Earlier in his remarks, Abubakar addressed the Olubadan and the assembly of chiefs, saying: “Kabiyesi, I want to begin with an apology.
“On behalf of my delegation, I regret our inability to personally witness your coronation, which we recognise as the fulfilment of your lifelong ambition.
“Our absence was not deliberate but the result of protocol logistics that prevented us from attending. Nonetheless, we have always looked forward to this day.
“I sought your permission a few days ago to bring this distinguished delegation to extend our congratulations in person and to wish you a long, prosperous and peaceful reign.
“Please accept our heartfelt apology and our letter of congratulations. May God bless your reign and grant Ibadan continued progress,” he said.
