Senator representing Oyo South District at the National Assembly, Sharafadeen Alli, has congratulated former Oyo State Governor, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, on his nomination as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland by the Olubadan-in-Council.
In a personally signed statement issued on Tuesday in Ibadan, Senator Alli who also holds the traditional title of Ekarun-Balogun of Ibadanland described Ladoja’s nomination as a historic and well-deserved milestone for a revered son of Ibadan.
He expressed gratitude to God for sparing the life of Oba Ladoja to ascend the ancient and prestigious throne at such a significant moment in Ibadan’s history.
The senator commended the Olubadan-in-Council for upholding the integrity of the city’s unique and time-honoured succession system, which he noted has continued to guarantee stability, peace, and order in the traditional institution.
Alli said Ladoja’s emergence as the Olubadan exemplifies the strength, resilience, and enduring relevance of the Ibadan chieftaincy structure widely regarded as a model among traditional systems in Nigeria.
He expressed confidence that Oba Ladoja would bring his wealth of experience, statesmanship, and wisdom to bear in the leadership of the traditional council and in fostering unity and progress in Ibadanland.
“Oba Ladoja has always demonstrated unwavering commitment to the peace, development, and cultural heritage of our dear Ibadanland,” Alli said.
He added that the choice of the former governor by the kingmakers was a fitting recognition of his lifelong service, loyalty to tradition, and deep connection to the people.
Alli expressed optimism that Ladoja’s reign would usher in a new era of peace, prosperity, and accelerated development for all sons and daughters of Ibadanland.
Pledging his full support to the monarch whom he described as a father, leader, and mentor, Alli reaffirmed his dedication as a proud indigene and high chief to the continuous growth and progress of the ancient city.
He also called on all Ibadan indigenes, both at home and in the diaspora, to unite in support of the new Olubadan in the collective interest of Ibadanland.
The senator concluded with a prayer for Oba Ladoja, asking God to grant him long life, sound health and divine wisdom to guide the affairs of the traditional institution and elevate Ibadan’s status among Yoruba and Nigerian cities.
