The ancient city of Ibadan, renowned for its towering history, rich cultural heritage, and unrivaled tradition of valor, is set to witness another glorious chapter on September 26, 2025, as His Imperial Majesty, Oba Rasidi Adewolu Akannmu Ladoja, ascends the throne in a coronation that promises to blend age-old Yoruba customs with the realities of modern leadership.
In anticipation of this historic day, one of Ibadan’s respected lineage leaders, Mogaji Oyewale Muibi Oyeranmi Aderogba, Mogaji of Ile Aderogba Labiran, has sent a powerful letter of greeting and royal felicitation to the incoming monarch. His message not only reflects the deep reverence of Ibadan families for their traditional institutions but also serves as a symbol of unity and continuity in Yoruba culture.
A Historic Coronation for Ibadanland
The coronation of Oba Rasidi Adewolu Akannmu Ladoja is not just another ceremonial event; it is a moment that reaffirms Ibadan’s position as a center of political influence, cultural pride, and communal strength in Yorubaland. For centuries, Ibadan kingship has been more than the mere wearing of a crown—it is a divine duty to safeguard the legacy of warriors, leaders, and visionaries who laid the foundations of the city.
Mogaji Aderogba, in his letter, described the occasion as a “divine affirmation of noble lineage, unmatched wisdom, and selfless service to Ibadanland.” He emphasized that Oba Ladoja’s ascension is not only a personal honor but also a blessing upon the entire land, marking a continuity of the valor of Oluyole, the unity of Lagelu, and the vision of countless Ibadan heroes who built the city into what it is today.
Royal Felicitation and Prayers for Kabiyesi
In the traditional Yoruba way, the letter was not just a congratulatory note but also a deeply spiritual invocation. Mogaji Aderogba prayed that Olodumare would grant the new monarch sound health, uncommon wisdom, and enduring strength to lead Ibadan into greater prosperity.
He further pledged the unwavering loyalty of his household, his lineage, and the entire Aderogba Labiran family to the reign of Oba Ladoja, stressing that under the monarch’s benevolent kingship, Ibadan will experience peace, cultural revival, and economic progress.
His closing words—“Adé ò ní bàjẹ́ lórí yín, ìrùkèrúdò kò ní wọlé yín, ìlú yóò dùn, ọmọ yóò dàgbà, àkọ́ni yóò pọ̀”—echoed the timeless Yoruba prayer that a king’s crown shall never be tainted, his reign shall not be troubled, and his people shall flourish.
The Cultural Weight of Ibadan’s Throne
Ibadan kingship is one of the most respected in Yoruba land, known for its unique succession system that rises through the ranks of Mogajis, Jagun, and Olubadan-in-Council before crowning a new monarch. Unlike many other kingdoms, the Ibadan system ensures that wisdom and experience guide the throne, as the king must have risen through the ranks of leadership before becoming Olubadan.
The coronation of Oba Rasidi Ladoja is therefore more than just a royal installation—it is a celebration of tradition, resilience, and cultural sophistication that makes Ibadan unique among Yoruba cities.
A New Dawn for Ibadanland
As the date of September 26 approaches, anticipation continues to build. The streets of Ibadan are expected to come alive with colorful displays, traditional drumming, chanting of praise singers, and the gathering of dignitaries from across Nigeria and beyond.
Mogaji Aderogba’s heartfelt message captures the spirit of the moment: a collective hope that under the new reign, Ibadanland will thrive, its culture will shine brighter, and its people will enjoy lasting peace and prosperity.
In his words:
> “Kabiyesi, as the chosen custodian of our people’s destiny at this sacred time, may Olodumare endow Your Imperial Majesty with wisdom and enduring strength. May Ibadan flourish, our culture thrive, and our people dwell in abundance.”
Indeed, the coronation of Oba Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja will not only be remembered as a personal triumph but as a milestone in the ever-unfolding history of Ibadanland.
Kabiyesi o! Long may you reign.
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