In his determination to ensure sustenance of peace, unity and progress in Ibadan, the Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland and former Governor of Oyo State, High Chief Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja finally bowed to pressure from the people of Ibadanland to wear the beaded Crown.
Chief Rashidi Ladoja disclosed this during an interview on Fresh FM’s live programme, ‘AGBAMI OSELU’ anchored by ace broadcaster, Alhaji Abolade Salami in Ibadan Sunday morning as monitored by Springstar.
He described the beaded crowns given to High Chiefs in Ibadan land as honorary and not intended for traditional purposes.
Chief Ladoja, during the programme, emphasized that the only king in the ancient city, is Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, the Olubadan of Ibadanland.
While answering questions on the live programme, the Otun Olubadan further explained that none of the High Chiefs who have received the beaded crowns has the right to call themselves Oba, as they do not have any domain.
“We have only one king in Ibadan, which is the Olubadan. No other person can call himself king apart from the Olubadan of Ibadanland” he stated.
“The beaded crowns are honorary and not traditional crowns. I spoke with the Oluwo, who confirmed that those who received the beaded crowns did not perform any traditional rites before being given the crowns. So, it is honorary”
In his words: “If that is what the people of Ibadan want, I will accept it, but it remains an honorary title. The Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin will grant it, government has no role in it” de added.
“I became the Jagun Olubadan on October 1, 1993, during the regime of Oba Asanke. Late Chief Moshood Abiola asked us to wait for him to witness the event.”
He concluded by praying for himself that, “by the special grace of Almighty God, I will become Olubadan”
According to him, “whoever God destined to become King will surely become King. Whatever obstacles that may be put on the way to the throne, if God says someone will become Olubadan, he will become Olubadan without stress”.
