Ladoja @ 82: Mogaji Gbenro Praises Monarch’s Leadership, Prays for Peace in Ibadanland

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A prominent Ibadan chief and grassroots leader, Oloye Olalekan Aremu Gbenro, Mogaji of Ile Oluwo Sakotun, Oke Aremo, Yemetun, Ibadan, has congratulated the Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba (Senator) Abdul-Rasheed Adewolu Akanmu Ladoja, Arusa I, on his 82nd birthday and first anniversary on the throne.

Oba Ladoja celebrated his 82nd birthday on Friday, September 25, 2026, while Saturday, September 26, marks one year since his historic coronation as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland at Mapo Hall, Ibadan.

In a congratulatory message personally signed and made available to journalists in Ibadan on Saturday, Gbenro described the double celebration as symbolic, historic and divinely ordained, noting that the monarch’s life exemplifies resilience, service and uncommon leadership.

“His 32 years of steady progression on the Olubadan chieftaincy ladder, which began on October 1, 1993, when he was installed as Jagun Olubadan, has prepared him richly for this moment.

“Ibadan is blessed to have a monarch who is a perfect blend of modern exposure, political wisdom, business acumen and deep traditional knowledge.”

The Mogaji noted that within his first year on the throne, Oba Ladoja had brought dignity, peace, stability and renewed prestige to the Olubadan institution.

He added that the monarch had continued to promote unity within the Olubadan-in-Council while strengthening the traditional institution as a vital partner in the development of Oyo State.

He said the journey of Oba Ladoja from Gambari village to becoming a chemical engineer trained at the University of Liège, Belgium, a successful businessman, distinguished senator, former governor of Oyo State and ultimately the Olubadan of Ibadanland, reflected a life of purpose and divine grace.

Gbenro said, “Ours is a joyous double celebration. We celebrate not just a King, but an institution. Kabiyesi Oba Senator Ladoja is an uncommon Olubadan.
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His 32 years of steady progression on the Olubadan chieftaincy ladder, which began on October 1, 1993, when he was installed as Jagun Olubadan, has prepared him richly for this moment.
“Ibadan is blessed to have a monarch who is a perfect blend of modern exposure, political wisdom, business acumen and deep traditional knowledge.”

The Mogaji noted that within his first year on the throne, Oba Ladoja had brought dignity, peace, stability and renewed prestige to the Olubadan institution.

He added that the monarch had continued to promote unity within the Olubadan-in-Council while strengthening the traditional institution as a vital partner in the development of Oyo State.

Gbenro described the Olubadan as a father to all, a bridge-builder and custodian of Ibadan’s rich culture, values and Omoluabi ethos.

He said the monarch’s reign had continued to foster unity among sons and daughters of Ibadanland, irrespective of political and religious affiliations.

“On behalf of my family and the entire Ile Oluwo Sakotun family, Oke Aremo, Yemetun, Ibadan, I heartily felicitate our revered father, His Imperial Majesty, Oba (Senator) Abdul-Rasheed Adewolu Akanmu Ladoja, Arusa I, on his 82nd birthday and first anniversary on the throne.

“May your reign be long, peaceful and more prosperous. May Almighty Allah continue to grant you sound health, wisdom and divine guidance as you lead Ibadanland to greater heights,” he added.

Gbenro also prayed for sustained peace, unity and unprecedented development across Ibadanland under the reign of Oba Ladoja.