Preparations have begun for the official coronation of former Oyo State Governor, Chief Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, with a week-long programme of events starting September 22.
At the inaugural planning committee meeting held in Ibadan on Monday, and chaired by Chief Bayo Oyero, stakeholders outlined activities leading up to the coronation.
Oyo State Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, confirmed the arrangements in a statement.
He said, “The programme will commence with an interdenominational service at the Olubadan Palace, Oke Aremo, on Monday, September 22. This will be followed by a Cultural Day celebration on Tuesday, spearheaded by the Central Council for Ibadan Indigenes and the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.”
According to him, a coronation lecture to be delivered by renowned historian, Professor Toyin Falola, is scheduled for Wednesday. A Mega Praise Worship concert will hold on Thursday at the Civic Centre, Idi-Ape, before the coronation grand finale at Mapo Hall on Friday, September 26.
Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Demola Ojo, was also present at the meeting, alongside other government officials, representatives of the Olubadan, and traditional chiefs.
Speaking after the meeting, Oyelade stressed that the event would reflect Ibadan’s rich cultural heritage.
“We are putting together a befitting programme that celebrates not just the new Olubadan, but also the history and traditions of Ibadanland,” he said.
The gathering had in attendance the Asipa Olubadan designate, Oba Hamidu Ajibade, Chief Nureni Adisa, Chief Adeola Oloko (Media Aide to the Olubadan), as well as council chairmen representing Ibadan’s 11 local governments and lawmakers from the state assembly.
