Oba Ladoja Receives His Excellency  Atiku Abubakar, President-in-Waiting, as First Official Visitor After Coronation

Ibadan, Oyo State — In a historic show of respect and national unity, His Excellency Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, Waziri of Adamawa (GCON), the President-in-Waiting and Father of the Nation, led a high-powered delegation to the palace of the newly crowned Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, at his Bodija residence on Tuesday.

The delegation included former Governor of Kaduna State, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, former Senate President, Senator Iyorcha Ayu, and other distinguished political and community leaders. This visit marked the very first official courtesy call on Oba Ladoja since his coronation as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.

Oba Ladoja, accompanied by his Oloris, graciously welcomed his visitors with the dignity and warmth befitting the throne of Ibadan.

During his address, His Excellency Atiku Abubakar tendered an apology for his unavoidable absence at the coronation ceremony, stating:

“Kindly forgive our inability to attend your coronation as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland on Friday.”

The Waziri of Adamawa congratulated the new Olubadan on his successful ascension to the throne, praying for Allah’s guidance, long life, and good health. He further expressed optimism that Oba Ladoja’s reign would bring about peace, prosperity, and greater progress for Ibadanland, Oyo State, and the entire Yoruba nation.

Atiku emphasized that traditional institutions remain pillars of Nigerian unity and guardians of cultural heritage. He described the Olubadan stool as one of the most respected thrones in Yorubaland, adding that its influence transcends the South-West and contributes greatly to Nigeria’s socio-political balance.

The visit has been widely described as symbolic and strategic, underscoring Atiku Abubakar’s position as a bridge-builder, statesman, and unifier of diverse cultures and regions in Nigeria. His presence in Ibadan reflects his deep respect for Yoruba traditional authority and his vision of a Nigeria where all tribes, cultures, and religions live in harmony.

This historic courtesy call further reaffirms Atiku’s commitment to fostering national integration, strengthening unity, and building bridges of trust across every corner of the country.

Published by:

Hon. Ibrahim A. Umar