Rashidi Adewolu Akanmu Ladoja remains a great figure whose ascendancy to limelight through life journey cuts across manufacturing, farming, politics, and now chieftaincy titles and traditional leadership. His very modest life embodies resilience and determination. His foray into politics elevated him further, as he became a Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and later in 2003, the Governor of Oyo State. In both roles, he earned a reputation for courage, accessibility, and people centered leadership.
His name commands loyalty because of the immense goodwill and trust he enjoys among his people, a trust that has endured years of political turbulence and public service.
Like the rays of the sun that touch every corner of the earth regardless of barriers, his influence spreads across civil servants, pensioners, artisans, traders, farmers, and business owners. This affection is even more visible in the villages of Oluyole, Ona Ara, Lagelu, Egbeda, and Akinyele local government areas where his leadership footprint lingers. He has become a father figure for the rural poor and a symbol of stability for the urban class, a bridge between the grassroots and the elites.
In recent history of Ibadan monarchy, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, the Olubadan-elect stands tall as a new chapter of tradition, political dynamism and modernity combined. He is a king who understands both the language of diplomacy and the demands of everyday governance. His political savvy means he will be a monarch who wears the crown and wields influence intelligently, guiding Ibadan with the wisdom of experience and the dignity of culture. His reign will be like rainfall after a long dry season signalling a period of refreshing, growth, and renewed confidence for Ibadanland.
This outgoing week, I was on the political entourage of the Matriarch of Ajimobi dynasty, Chief Mrs. Florence Ajimobi JP to pay homage to the Olubadan elect at his Ibadan residence. It was a profound and memorable occasion. And sitting down in the expansive sitting room of Kabiyesi brought back nostalgia.
The memory of my personal political journey still connects me to Kabiyesi. In 2011, as the candidate of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) for Ona Ara State Constituency, I felt the overwhelming might of his political machinery. Though my defeat came at the polls, I realized that it was not a loss to my opponent but rather a collision with the enduring influence of Rashidi Ladoja, who at that time was the face of Accord Party in Oyo State. The people of Ona Ara LG revered him deeply, and their votes reflected their loyalty to his ideals. That experience taught me an unforgettable lesson, and my resolution was that any political contest directly against him in Ona Ara LG was not only unwise but also almost unwinnable.
As we look towards the 2027 general elections, it becomes imperative for all sons and daughters of Ibadanland to cherish and honour the palace of Olubadan. The palace should be a symbol of tradition and a rallying point for development, unity, and progress especially for the villages and communities of Ibadan under Oyo Central Senatorial District, where underdevelopment and neglect have long plagued them. The role of the Olubadan-elect is crucial and using his exalted seat in liberating us must prioritize the forgotten villages, the neglected communities, and the marginalized voices that deserve inclusion in the greater narrative of progress of Ibadanland. With his influence and wisdom, he is well positioned to be the monarch that bridges the gap between forgotten communities and the promise of modern development of Ibadan using our strength.
As Kabiyesi marks his 81st birthday and coronation ceremony, we celebrate our King, a man, an institution, a leader and a living legend. Kabiyesi, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, may your reign be peaceful, serene, prosperous, and progressive for Ibadan sons and daughters. May your time on the throne as Olubadan bring joy to both young and old, fostering expansive commerce and industrialisation, developmental politics, and the empowerment of our youths. Kabiyesi must expand the liberational theory of the youth of Ibadanland, giving them the courage to thrive in every sphere of life. Baba must remain a king for all as the people await the light of your leadership like the rising sun over the ancient hills of Ibadan filled and full of hope.
Happy 81st birthday, Sir. Igba Odun, Odun kan. Ase!!!
