Ladoja, Ooni of Ife Call for Unity Among Yoruba Monarchs to Drive Regional Development

…As Olubadan-designate warns against land grabs, vows end to indiscipline in Ibadanland

…As Ooni backs Ladoja’s reign, calls for support ahead of Olubadan coronation

The Olubadan-designate, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, have jointly called for unity among traditional rulers in Yorubaland, stressing that only through unity can the region achieve meaningful development and retain its prominent cultural standing.

Oba Ladoja made the call on Sunday while receiving the Ooni and his entourage at his Bodija residence in Ibadan, where he emphasized the need for Yoruba monarchs to speak with one voice and collaborate for the collective progress of the region.

“If we all come together with our ideas and align them with yours, we will have our way,” Oba Ladoja said.

He commended the Ooni for playing a leading role in fostering unity among Yoruba traditional rulers, describing him as a teacher and a vital ally in ensuring cohesion in the traditional institution.

The former governor and senator also acknowledged the significance of President Bola Tinubu’s leadership, describing him as a son of the land.

According to him, the President has promised to attend his coronation as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland scheduled for Friday, 26th September 2025.

“The experience of governance is different from politics and business. I don’t have the experience the Ooni has. Ten years on the throne is no joke. By the grace of God, he will be one of my teachers,” he said.

Oba Ladoja further noted that several state governors who have visited him since his emergence as Olubadan-designate have reiterated the need for unity among Yoruba monarchs, asserting that such unity would prevent political manipulation of the traditional institution.

Olubadan-designate also charged compound heads, known as Mogajis, and Baales to take responsibility for security within their domains.

He warned that any incidents of criminality would be linked to a failure of leadership on their part.

“Your appointment comes with responsibility, and part of that is ensuring peace in your domains. We will no longer condone any act of indiscipline in Ibadanland,” he warned.

He also condemned the illegal sale of land to foreigners and vowed that such actions would no longer be tolerated.

“The idea of some individuals grabbing land through dubious means for foreigners will no longer be tolerated. Our role as traditional heads is to work with all levels of government to ensure peace and order,” he added.

Earlier, the Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi II
praised Oba Ladoja’s wealth of experience, highlighting his rare background as a former governor and senator who is now set to ascend the throne of his ancestors.

“Oba Ladoja is the first traditional ruler to have served as both a governor and a senator. His leadership qualities will be invaluable on the throne,” the Ooni said.

He urged Ibadan residents to extend their famed hospitality during the coronation event, which is expected to attract high-profile guests from across the country and beyond.

“Baba cannot do it alone. He needs our support as traditional rulers, residents, and indigenes of Ibadanland,” Oba Ogunwusi added.

“My prayer is that God grants him long life and good health as he ascends the throne of his forefathers.”