By Kunle Kareem
CELEBRATING A WOMAN OF GRACE, COMPASSION AND ROYAL DIGNITY
Though Her Majesty, Olori Barrister Rashidat Yinka Ladoja, celebrated her birthday last Thursday, this tribute remains a heartfelt celebration of an exceptional woman whose life continues to inspire many. I join countless well-wishers, friends, admirers and members of the royal family in honouring the beloved wife of His Imperial Majesty, Oba Dr. Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, Arusa I, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, for her grace, compassion, humility and unwavering commitment to humanity.
I had the rare privilege of meeting Her Royal Majesty in person while preparing the Special Coronation Edition of The Springstar Magazine in honour of the coronation of His Imperial Majesty. Following Kabiyesi’s gracious approval for the publication, I became a regular visitor to the private palace in the days leading to the historic coronation and for several weeks thereafter, gathering materials and conducting interviews.
Throughout that period, I consistently heard glowing testimonies about Olori Rashidat Yinka Ladoja from members of the royal family, palace aides, security personnel and numerous visitors. The recurring description was that of a woman with a large heart—kind, generous, compassionate and deeply committed to the welfare of others, especially the less privileged.
When I eventually met her, those testimonies came alive. Although it was our first meeting, she received me with remarkable warmth and kindness, making me feel completely at home. Beyond granting me an interview, she willingly assisted the project by personally reaching out to several distinguished personalities whose contributions greatly enriched the publication. Her readiness to support a journalist she had only just met remains a memorable demonstration of her humility and selflessness.
Olori Barrister Rashidat Yinka Ladoja exemplifies dignity, integrity, moral excellence and the noble virtues befitting a royal matriarch. She is not only a dependable pillar of support to His Imperial Majesty but also a source of inspiration to many through her quiet service, compassion and unwavering commitment to humanity.
Without doubt, she is a priceless blessing to the Royal Family and to Ibadanland.
As Your Royal Majesty begins another blessed year, I fervently pray that Almighty Allah (SWT) grants you many more years in sound health, abundant joy, divine protection and unending peace. May He continue to strengthen you with wisdom and grace as you touch more lives with your kindness and generosity.
Happy Belated Birthday, Your Royal Majesty, and may Allah’s abundant blessings continue to rest upon you always.
