The city of Ibadan, Oyo State, is agog with joy and anticipation today as Oba Rashidi Ladoja is officially installed as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.
The week-long activities for the coronation reach their peak today at the historic Mapo Hall, where Governor Seyi Makinde is expected to present the Staff of Office to the 81-year-old monarch, who only yesterday celebrated his birthday.
Oba Ladoja, a seasoned businessman, former senator, and former governor of Oyo State, ascended the throne after the passing of Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who died on July 7, just two days after his 90th birthday.
Ibadan in Celebration Mode
The entire metropolis has been transformed into a carnival-like atmosphere, with major roads such as Iwo Road, Mokola, Ring Road, Challenge, Sango, Eleyele, Molete, Apata, Akala Road, Akobo, and Bashorun adorned with colorful billboards and congratulatory messages.
Convoys of dignitaries, accompanied by sirens, have flooded the city as high-profile guests arrive for the grand occasion. Hotels are fully booked, while major markets across Ibadan will remain closed for the ceremony as directed by the Organising Committee headed by Chief Bayo Oyero, former President of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII).
Tight Security and Smooth Traffic Flow
Security agencies, including the police and Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA), have been strategically deployed across the city to ensure law and order. Key adjoining roads leading to Mapo Hall have also been shut to ease traffic for guests. Motorists have been advised to use alternative routes.
The Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport in Ibadan, which reopened earlier this week after undergoing upgrades, is playing a central role in the festivities as it receives dignitaries.
Dignitaries Expected
The ceremony is expected to attract an array of Nigeria’s top political leaders, including President Bola Tinubu, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, state governors, traditional rulers, and captains of industry.
Ibadan, Nigeria’s largest city by landmass, is set to witness one of its most historic cultural moments as indigenes and well-wishers converge to honor Oba Rashidi Ladoja’s ascension to the throne.
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