A notable aspirant for the Oyo Central Senatorial seat in the 2027 election under the All Progressives Congress in Oyo State, Ademola Alli, on Tuesday, congratulated Oba Rashidi Ladoja on his formal nomination by the Olubadan‑in‑Council as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.

Ibadan kingmakers, on Monday, adopted former Governor Ladoja as the new Olubadan following the completion of the statutory 21‑day mourning period for the late 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who passed away on Monday, July 7, 2025.

It will also be recalled that the Council, through the Balogun, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, and seconded by Osi Olubadan, Oba Eddy Oyewole, concurred unanimously on Ladoja’s elevation during a meeting held at the Olubadan Palace, Oke‑Aremo, in the Ibadan North Local Government Area of the state.

Alli, in a congratulatory message in Ibadan, the state capital, described the nomination as a momentous milestone for Ibadan traditional leadership and continuity.

He, therefore, paid tribute to the late Oba Olakulehin, recognising his brief reign and dedicated service to Ibadanland.

“Let me express solidarity with the royal family and the Olubadan‑in‑Council. I want to say that Ladoja’s nomination marks an opportunity for healing and renewal in the ancient city.

“I want to also express confidence in Oba Ladoja’s distinguished public record, A wealth of experience and deep-rooted connection with Ibadan as a former governor and senator.

“Ladoja’s blend of traditional authority and modern governance credentials positions him well to lead Ibadan into a new era,” he stated.

punch