The Oyo State Government on Monday said a total of 5,600 newly recruited teachers will be uploaded into its database and thereafter, ready to be deployed to public basic schools across the state.
Speaking in Ibadan, the Executive Chairman, Oyo State Universal Basic Education Board (OYOSUBEB), Dr. Nureni Aderemi Adeniran said the board has scheduled dates for verification of the newly recruited teachers from Thursday, December 5, 2024 to Monday, December 16, 2024.
Recall that the board recently announced the list of successful candidates who made it through the first batch of teachers’ recruitment.
Dr. Nureni Aderemi Adeniran said the verification exercise will take place at the board’s headquarters in Agodi, Ibadan.He reiterated the commitment of Governor Seyi Makinde-led administration towards the welfare of teachers in the state.Adeniran noted that 5,600 candidates were listed in the first batch, which was duly approved by Governor Seyi Makinde.In the statement, Dr. Adeniran said the verification session will take 8 working days, and will be witnessed by relevant stakeholders.
Dr. Adeniran gave the verification schedules as follows:• THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2024: Akinyele and Ido Local Government Areas.
• FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2024: Afijio, Atiba, Oyo East and Oyo West Local Government Areas.
• MONDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2024: Lagelu, and Egbeda LGAs.
• TUESDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2024: Ibadan North, Ibadan North-East, Ibadan North-west, Ibadan South East and Ibadan South West Local Government Areas.
• MONDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2024: People with Disabilities and Caregivers.
The chairman urged all candidates to come with relevant credentials, such as evidence of local government of residence, date of birth certificate, NIN certificate, original certificates from their institutions, original NYSC certificate (for graduates), change of name for married women, printout of congratulatory message, and other relevant documents.The chairman noted that the scheduled time is 9 a.m. each day.
Oyo State governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has approved the appointment of Mr Olasoji Jr. Adagunodo Oluwatukesi, as Special Adviser, Regional Integration.
The governor also approved the appointment of Mr Salawu Yusuf Adisa (Okotolaye) as Special Assistant Culture III.
These were contained in a letter signed by the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Otunba Segun Ogunwuyi.The new Special Adviser on Regional Integration is a son of the late former PDP National Vice Chairman (South-West), Hon. Olasoji Adagunodo Oluwatukesi.
According to the letter, the appointments are with immediate effect.The governor, while congratulating the new appointees, counseled them to see their appointment as a call to service.SignedSulaimon OlanrewajuSpecial Adviser (Media) to Oyo State GovernorNovember 15, 2024
Oyo State Governor Engr. Seyi Makinde, former Governor Rashidi Ladoja, the Olubadan of Ibadan land Oba Olakukehin, and other dignitaries are expected to attend the book launch for the late Oba Lekan Balogun, the 42nd Olubadan of Ibadan land, who passed away last March at the age of 81.
The book, titled The Life and Times of the 42nd Olubadan of Ibadanland, Late Oba Lekan Balogun, is set to be launched on Tuesday, October 22, 2024, at the Ibadan Civic Centre, Idiape, Ibadan. This event is expected to be the highlight of a symposium honoring the late monarch, who reigned from March 11, 2022, to March 14, 2024.
Governor Makinde will serve as the Special Guest of Honour, with the sitting Olubadan, Oba Olakukehin, as the Grand Host. The Ekerin Parakoyi of Ibadanland, Alhaji Chief Fatai Aremu Olanrewaju, and the Agba Akin Olubadan, High Chief Fijabi, will be the Chief Launchers at the event. According to the organizers, the book, written by educationist Dr. Layo Adeniyi, chronicles the Ibadan chieftaincy traditional system and delves deeply into the life and times of the late Oba Balogun.
The book consists of 221 pages and covers 21 chapters, focusing on past heroes in the city of Ibadan, the Ibadan Empire, its founders, notable Olubadan figures, ruling lines, and the emojis of Ibadanland. It also provides an in-depth explanation of the ascension to the Olubadan throne, the journey to becoming a high chief, and the roles of members of the Olubadan-in-Council. Furthermore, the organizers noted that the book details the unique process by which Ibadan chiefs ascend to the throne of Olubadan without any rancor. It also pays tribute to the eminent sons and daughters of the city and its fallen heroes.
Hon. Samson Tijani Adeyemo has proudly commended the visionary leadership of His Excellency, Engr. Oluseyi Makinde, whose administration has set a new standard for governance in Oyo State.
The latest commissioning of the Local Government Service Commission & Pension Building is a striking testament to the Governor’s resolve to elevate public service efficiency and improve the welfare of the people.
This new facility will provide a much-needed upgrade to the infrastructure supporting local government services, ensuring smoother operations and quicker access to benefits for pensioners, who have spent their lives serving the state. Governor Makinde’s commitment to the welfare of civil servants and retirees remains unmatched, and this project reflects his broader agenda of human development.
Under the leadership of Governor Makinde, Oyo State has witnessed remarkable progress across various sectors. Some of his other notable achievements include:
The Light-Up Oyo Project, which has brought over 200 kilometers of street lighting to different parts of the state, boosting security, extending business hours, and enhancing the overall quality of life for residents.
The construction of Ojoo & Challenge Bus Terminal, including the ongoing Iwo-Road Bus Terminals aimed at transforming the transport sector and providing a modern facility for commuters, thereby improving urban mobility and reducing traffic congestion.
The LAUTECH Sole Ownership Achievement, which has ended decades of joint ownership issues, bringing complete control of the institution to Oyo State and allowing for better management and expansion of educational opportunities for students.
Governor Makinde’s administration continues to blaze the trail with innovative projects aimed at modernizing the state’s infrastructure, boosting the economy, and improving the quality of life for its citizens. His forward-thinking approach to governance, underscored by transparency and inclusiveness, is transforming Oyo State into a beacon of development in Nigeria.
As a responsible citizen of Oyo State, I celebrate Governor Makinde’s exceptional achievements and express my full support for his administration’s ongoing efforts to elevate Oyo State to greater heights.
Signed Hon. Samson Tijani Adeyemo Ona Ara PDP Stalwart
The Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes CCII at its General Assembly of Friday, 6th. October 2023 formally approved the 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival Planning Committee, as presented before the house by the President General, Chief Sulaiman Ajeniyi Ajewole Esq.
The 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival Planning Committee, herein referred to as “the committee” was given the assignment to organize the Annual Ibadan Cultural Festival Programme. The committee was inaugurated by the Executive Council on Friday 3rd November, 2024 at the Ibadan House, Oke Aremo Ibadan.The committee, at the inaugural meeting, set up fourteen (14) sub-committees to assist the Central committee in achieving the given assignment.The Chairman of the Committee, Balogun Gaphar Babatunde Ojetola, expressed his appreciation to all the members especially the committee executive team namely, Dr. Mrs Monsurat Ayo Alaga (Vice Chairman), Engineer Busari Akere (Secretary) and Dr. Mrs Iyabo Fadiora (Assistant Secretary ). He extended appreciation also to the Sub-Committee Chairmen and Secretaries.
The committee is blessed with many other eggheads too numerous to be specially mentioned.For the first time in history, a Cultural Festival dedicated bank account was launched by the CCII Exco in response to the Cultural Festival Committee Chairman request. Thanks to the President General and the Treasurer for all the efforts in this regard.A Board Room platform which comprises of all Chairmen of Sub-Committees, Representatives of Market Leaders and the Warlords Association, Representatives of the Ibadan Prime Youths Forum including the representatives of selected media establishments, hold virtual meetings to brainstorm on the progress, developments and challenges encountered at various sub-committee levels.A total of twelve (12) Central Committee physical meetings and series of virtual interactive sessions were held before the commencement of the main events alongside a series of parallel sub-committee meetings.
Reports and feedback were made to the Executive council during Executive meetings and as may be requested.This year Ibadan Cultural Festival Planning Committee introduced an Internally Generated Fund Initiative through voluntary donations from the committee members. The donations represented our take off grant and thanks to all our very patriotic members.Another novel initiative for fund generation was introduced through Special Decorations on identified individuals. A comprehensive list of our Grand Ambassadors of Ibadan Culture will appear under Decorations and Awards however, it is important to note that it was at such occasions where His Eminence, Aare Dr. Dawood Makanjuola De-Damak investiture as The Grand Commander of Ibadan Culture ( GCIC ) that a brand new 18 Seater Bus worth Thirty Eight Million Naira (N38M) and Ten million naira was donated. May his wealth and health continue to increase. AmenIt is thus worthy of note to mention that this committee does not make any recourse whatsoever to the CCII fund in executing this year’s cultural festival from commencement to the Grand Finale. To God belongs all glory.
The Official Flag Off for the 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival was held on Monday 19th February, 2024 in a grand style following the initial approval of His Excellency, The Executive Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Abiodun Oluwaseyi Makinde FNSE, DSC, GSSRS for the Cultural festival to be held between 14th and 20th April, 2024.The passing of His Imperial Majesty, Oba Sen. Dr. Mohood Ishola Olalekan Balogun, Alli Okunmade II on the 14th March, 2024 brought abrupt suspension to all the cultural activities. His Imperial Majesty was interned on the 15th March, 2024 according to the muslim rites.There was a period of Interregnum between the 15th March, 2024 till 12th July, 2024 due to an unusual delay in the installation and coronation of the new Olubadan, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Dr. Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin, Ige Olakulehin I.The New Aafin Olubadan was commissioned on Wednesday 10th July while the new Olubadan was installed and crowned on Friday 12th July, 2024 to pave the way for resumption of the cultural festival activities.During the period of the interregnum, some Staggered Programs were held between Friday 31st May and Thursday 4th July, 2024 such as the Finals of Ibadan Got Talent, Orekelewa Brain and Beauty Pageant, All Ibadan Youths Conference, Table Tennis and Ayo Olopon Finals, Stage Play on Balogun Ajayi Osungbekunmi, Education All categories Finals and Football competition finals.The committee visited fourteen (14) media houses, Speaker House of Assembly, Six State Commissioners, the Chief Judge, the Council of Iyalodes, the Olubadan-in-Council, Dr. Chief Omololu Olunloyo, the Deputy Governor, the Wife of the Governor and other very important personalities in and outside the state to solicit support and sponsorship of the program.Ten Grand Ambassadors of Ibadan Culture (GAIC ) and One Grand Commander of Ibadan Culture (GCIC ) were decorated with pop and pageantryNumerous deserving and worthy individuals received different awards in the categories of MPII, MDII, MOFI and MOWI before and during the Grand Finale.All proceeds were directly remitted to the dedicated FCMB Account of the CCII Cultural Festival and transparently managed by the CCII signatories.The CCII and the 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival Planning Committee paid Royal Homage to the Olubadan of Ibadanland,
His Imperial Majesty, Oba Dr. Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin and his Council on the 22nd July, 2024 to receive Royal blessing and approval to continue with the programs of the 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival.The program resummed on the 24th July, 2024 with the newly introduced innovation into the cultural festival where Ibadan Local Couisines such as Aawon, Oojo, Ekuru, Akaakoko, Tuuwo, Egbo and Ewa, Oole ati eko, Ekomimun ati akara kengbe, dundu ati ewa were served as breakfast to two thousands members at the historical Mapo Hall Arena, Ibadan. This was followed by Road Show from Mapo Hall to Ibadan House.The annual Amala Festival and Fuji Fiesta was held on the same day at the Ibadan House Premises. Awards were presented to notable Ibadan Business Leaders and leading Fuji musicians. His Royal Majesty, Oba Rasheed Adewolu Ladoja , Chief Bayo Oyero, Chief Mrs Bode Amao, Hon. Justice Iyabo Yerima, Oyo State Chief Judge , Chief Mrs Mutiat Ladoja and a host of other Important dignitaries graced the ocassion. Hot Amala with assorted meat, fish and ogunfe were served to more than 2,000 members and special guests. Alhaji Tajudeen System, Alhaji Rashidi Ayinde and other Fuji Stars performed on stage at this epoc making event where all were dressed in this year’s Amala Day Festival.The Business Luncheon was held at the Ilaji Hotels and Resorts where series of awards were presented to various awardees in different categories.
A prominent Lagos based entertainer, Peter Akah who had shown tremendous love of Ibadanland by memorising all the Ibadan rulers since inception till date on a viral social media was brought in for due recognition and appreciation. He received material gifts, an award and cash gifts of more than Three million naira on the spot. His joy knows no bounds and was full of praises of Ibadanland.Friday 26th July, 2024 was the Special Jummah Service which was held at the Oja’Ba Central Mosque and all the Central Mosques in Ibadanland. The Chief Imaam of Ibadanland prayed for the Leadership of the CCII and Ibadanland especially on the successful completion of the Aafin Olubadan during this regime. The Jummah Service was well attended by members of the CCII affiliate clubs.The Fellowship Award was held immediately after the Jummah Service at the Civic Center where several awardees received their nominated awards. The Oyo State Speaker, House of Assembly, many Local Government Chairmen, Obas and Council of Mogajis and Baales graced this august ocassion.The Grand Finale was held at the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium on Saturday, 27th July, 2024. This year’s Grand Finale was specially attended by the Executive Governor of Oyo State, His Excellency, Engineer Abiodun Oluwaseyi Makinde, FNSE, DSC, GSSRS, The First Lady, Chief Mrs Tamunominini Makinde who received the coveted Most Outstanding Wife of Ibadanland MOWI, the Deputy Governor, Barrister AbdRaheem Adebayo Lawal who received the coveted Most Outstanding Friend of Ibadanland MOFI , the Chairman of the Ocassion, Deacon Oladejo Owolabi , CEO IBR Impact Radio and Adelayo Academy and other very important dignitaries. The President General, Barr. Ajeniyi Ajewole played Host to these important dignitaries. Vey important dignitaries from home and abroad were called forward to receive several categories of awards. The event witnessed the traditional parade of the masquerades, Warlord Exhibitions and the colorful exhibition of variety affiliate clubs. Live streaming and broadcasting through all available social media networks showcased this year’s cultural festival to the full acceptance of the International audience. Glory be to God almighty.
The Special Thanksgiving Service was held at The Cathedral of St. Peters Aremo at a fully packed event. The Bishop prayed for the CCII, Ibadanland, Oyo State and Nigeria. May we continue to celebrate many more Ibadan Cultural Festival. Amen
MAJOR CHALLENGES
Despite a smooth take-off of this year’s activities, we recorded quite a number of major challenges which constituted an unimaginable set back to the program.
Passage of His Imperial Majesty, Oba Lekan Balogun at the middle of the programme .
Four months gap between the passage of one Oba to the installation of another Olubadan.
A longest period of interregnum in the history of Ibadanland.
Skyrocket increase in the prices of commodities.
High cost of fuel towering above one thousand naira per litre.
The need to recirculate hundreds of sponsorship letters in and outside the state . Effect of changes in dates on our potential sponsors.
Difficulty encountered for securing the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium for the Grand Finale on time which led to the delay in setting up the venue. We thank Senator Sharafadeen Abiodun Alli for his last minute intervention in this regard.
APOLOGIES
The delay in accessing the Grand Finale venue caused untold hardships for the vendors who brought canopies, chairs, tables and other rentals as they were denied access to the venue a day prior. This affected some affiliate clubs in making necessary arrangements for their members. We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience.Some paid adverts and goodwill messages were not captured in our brochures for some technical reasons, please accept our apologies. Necessary arrangement is in place to either refund payment or repost the material in subsequent CCII Publications.
APPRAISALS/APPRECIATIONS
First and foremost, we return all praises and adoration to God almighty for making it possible for us to deliver an unprecedented 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival.
To God belongs all the glory.We thank the Chief Sulaiman Ajeniyi Ajewole led CCII Executive Council for giving us the opportunity to serve our fatherland in this capacity. We also thank the entire members of the CCII for their prayers and support without which we couldn’t have recorded this exemplary success. Appreciation is also due to the entire administrative and non-administrative staff of Ibadan House.
Thank you all. Importantly, immense appreciation goes to all the members of the 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival Planning Committee by standing firmly with devotion, dedication and total commitment in ensuring that success is achieved, through thick and thin. Almighty God will never desert you at your point of needs.E se A dupe, I hold you all in very high esteem.We must not fail to specially appreciate all the affiliate clubs for making this year’s program the MOST COLORFUL, ATTRACTIVE AND ENTERTAINING EVENT in the history of Ibadan Cultural Festival. Thanks and God Bless you All.To our donors who are never tired of supporting all our activities generously, may the good Lord continue to increase you in all capacities.I pray that my successor will keep the flag higher and build on the established success story.Ile Ibadan yoo gbe gbogbo wa O. Aamin.E ba n gbomo Oke, Lanti Lantiiii.
Victory Advocates of Nigeria (VAN), Oyo State Chapter,proudly celebrate His Excellency, Engr. Oluseyi Makinde,for his outstanding leadership and the landmark accomplishments recorded under his administration.
Yesterday’s commissioning of the newly constructed Local Government Service Commission & Staff Pension Building stands as yet another proof to his unwavering commitment to infrastructure development and improving governance in Oyo State.
This state-of-the-art facility not only enhances the operational capacity of the Local Government Service Commission but also provides a conducive environment for Staff training and pensioners to access services in dignity and comfort. The building is a symbol of Governor Makinde’s dedication to transparency, efficiency, and the welfare of the people, particularly local government staff and retirees.In addition to this remarkable milestone, Governor Makinde has consistently demonstrated visionary leadership, which has translated into significant infrastructural developments across Oyo State. Notable projects include:-The reconstruction of the Moniya-Iseyin Road a vital economic artery that connects Oke-Ogun to Ibadan, greatly facilitating the movement of goods and services and boosting agriculture in the region.
The expansion and rehabilitation of health facilities across the state, ensuring improved healthcare delivery for residents.
Ongoing projects like the Ibadan Circular Road which promises to reduce traffic congestion and enhance economic activities.
Governor Makinde’s leadership continues to pave the way for Oyo State to thrive as an economic hub and a model of good governance. His visionary infrastructure projects are transforming the state, creating opportunities for growth, and ensuring a brighter future for all citizens.
As a youth friendly governor, who we can say currently have the highest number of youths in his government which is unprecedented in the State among other youth based initiative programmes that has been implemented in the State is currently training over 3,000 youth in web design, digital marketing and other 21st century skills through the Oyo State Agency for Youth Development.Once again, we commend Governor Makinde for his outstanding contributions to the development of Oyo State and reaffirm our support for his administration as it continues to achieve unprecedented progress.
Signed:
Femi OladosuState Acting Coordinator,
Victory Advocates of Nigeria (VAN), Oyo State Chapter
Hon. Asiwaju Makanjuola Oluwatosin Taofeek aka (Amot) Tosin Gboye has commended the recent flag-off of the upgrade of Ibadan Airport, now named Samuel Ladoke Akintola International Airport by Governor Seyi Makinde’s and says that the ambitious project will not only elevate the status of Ibadan but also position it as a hub for international travel, trade, and investment.
” With this upgrade, Oyo State is on track to become a key player in the global economy, attracting international business and fostering local tourism. Governor Makinde’s focus on this pivotal infrastructure is a clear demonstration of his strategic leadership. The airport upgrade will enhance connectivity, making travel more convenient for the people of Oyo State and beyond. It is a bold move towards modernization, one that will boost the state’s economy, create job opportunities, and improve the overall quality of life for the residents. With the promise of state-of-the-art facilities, Ibadan is set to witness an influx of economic activities that will ripple across various sectors, including hospitality, tourism, and commerce”
He further stated that In addition to the airport upgrade, Governor Makinde has also embarked on an extensive road infrastructure transformation across Ibadan. “Roads are the lifeblood of any thriving city, and Governor Makinde understands this crucial fact. His administration has initiated and completed several key road projects, reducing traffic congestion and improving the ease of transportation within the city”
“These projects are not just about improving roads; they are about fostering economic growth, reducing travel time, and enhancing safety for the citizens of Ibadan. From major highways to inner-city roads, the transformation is visible across all areas of the city. The dualization of major roads and the rehabilitation of existing ones show a commitment to creating a modern, well-connected Ibadan that can stand shoulder to shoulder with other major cities in Nigeria. These projects, coupled with the airport upgrade, will make Ibadan more accessible to the rest of the world, opening doors for businesses and investors looking to tap into the state’s rich potential”
As a progress Indigene of Oyo State and a loyal party man, I commend Governor Makinde for his commitment and dedication to the progress of Ibadan. The airport upgrade and road infrastructure improvements are transformational projects that will have a lasting impact on our city’s growth and development. We look forward to seeing the full realization of these projects and the positive change they will bring to the lives of the people of Oyo State.
Signed: Hon. Asiwaju Makanjuola Oluwatosin Taofeek aka Tosin Gboye, 2023 Ibadan North House of Assembly, Aspirant.
It is with great appreciation that I, Deacon Adegbite Omoniyi, commend the tireless efforts of His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde, in transforming Oyo State through strategic infrastructure projects. A notable achievement is the ongoing upgrade of Alakia Airport, now known as Samuel Ladoke Akintola International Airport, to International standards. This project is set to elevate Oyo State’s position as a global destination, boosting economic activities and international trade while enhancing tourism.
Governor Makinde’s commitment to modernizing transportation in Oyo State is evident in his numerous development initiatives. The ongoing bus terminals at Iwo Road upon completion will significantly improved the transportation network, providing safer and more organized commuting options. The expansion of Olodo Bank Junction, coupled with the Olodo Bridge upgrade, demonstrates his foresight in reducing traffic congestion and enhancing road safety in our community.
Furthermore, the dualization of the Alakia Express Road to Adegbayi, the ongoing Circular Road construction, and the Ajia to New Ife Road Overhead Bridge are monumental projects that will improve connectivity within Egbeda and beyond. These sustainable infrastructure developments are set to increase the state’s internally generated revenue (IGR), while giving Egbeda Local Government a modern, urban feel.
Special recognition is due to my distinguished Chairman, Ambassador Hon. Sanda Sikiru Oyedele, for his unwavering dedication to the progress of our LG, and his support for the developmental agenda of His Excellency, Engr. Seyi Makinde.
Finally, as we look to the future, the positive impacts of these projects will reverberate throughout the local economy, providing opportunities for growth and improved living standards.
Long Live GSM Long Live OYO STATE
Signed: Deacon Adegbite Omoniyi Felix Special Assistant on Road & Transport, Egbeda L.G.
Her Excellency, Mrs Tamunominini Makinde, has called for the enhancement of nursing mothers’ rights and the promotion of exclusive breastfeeding in the state, emphasizing its numerous benefits for mothers and babies.
She said this, on Thursday at an event organized by her office to commemorate the 2024 World Breastfeeding Week in Ibadan, the Oyo state capital.
“We must create a society where nursing mothers are supported and empowered to breastfeed their babies without fear of stigma or discrimination,” Mrs. Makinde said.
She stressed that breastfeeding reduces the risk of infant mortality, promotes bonding between mothers and their children, and enhances the cognitive development of babies.
“Breast milk is the best gift we can give our children, and we must do everything possible to promote and support breastfeeding,” she added.Mrs. Makinde also advocated for the creation of a conducive environment for nursing mothers to breastfeed their babies, including the establishment of crèches and breastfeeding rooms in public places.“We need to make our public spaces friendly to nursing mothers, so they can feel comfortable and confident breastfeeding their babies,” she said.
Also speaking, Dr Khadeejah Alarape, Director of Nutrition, Oyo Primary Health Care Board enlightened the nursing mothers on the need to eat good food.She assured that the state government would continue to support initiatives that promote breastfeeding and improve maternal and child health.
The event featured breastfeeding awareness walk with participants including healthcare professionals, nursing mothers, and stakeholders in the health sector.Nursing Mothers present were given food stuffs and cash courtesy of the Wife of the Governor.
In an historic and iconic move that further reiterate his dedication to the peace and cultural heritage of Ibadanland, Baba Rashidi Ladoja, the Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, has agreed to wear the ceremonial beaded crown. This decision, made with the utmost regard for the unity and stability of our ancient city, is an indication to his commitment to preserving the traditions and customs that define the illustrious history of Ibadan.
Baba Ladoja, a revered leader and former Governor of Oyo State, has consistently demonstrated a deep-seated passion for cultural preservation and communal harmony. His agreement to wear the beaded crown though a mere ceremonial act but significant gesture aimed at ensuring the seamless succession to the Olubadan stool, thereby averting any potential disputes or disruptions that could arise.
The Olubadan stool, a symbol of the rich heritage and authority in Ibadanland, has always been revered and respected. However, in recent years, the succession process has been marred by controversies and disagreements that threatened the peace of the land. Baba Ladoja’s acceptance of the beaded crown is a strategic move to uphold the sanctity of this age-old institution and to foster an atmosphere of peace and mutual respect.
By taking this step, Baba Ladoja has once again emerged as a symbol of hope and a unifying force within Ibadanland. His actions resonate deeply with the values of our ancestors, reflecting a profound understanding of the cultural and historical significance of the Olubadan stool. This decision is poised to set a precedent for future generations, illustrating the importance of prioritizing the greater good over personal or political gains. In an era where modernization often poses challenges to cultural preservation, Baba Ladoja’s decision serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of embracing and preserving our traditions.
Baba Ladoja’s willingness to wear the ceremonial crown is a shoe of his respect for the customs and traditions that have shaped the city for centuries. It is a clear indication of his resolve to ensure that the essence of Ibadan’s heritage remains intact, even as the world around us continues to evolve.
Finally, onee of the most significant aspects of Baba Ladoja’s decision is its potential to ensure a seamless succession to the Olubadan stool. The history of Ibadan is stories of valor, wisdom, and leadership, by agreeing to wear the beaded crown, Baba Ladoja is paving the way for a smooth transition of power, thus safeguarding the continuity and stability of our traditional institution. Baba should be commended for this great move, and shouldn’t be seen as bowing to pressure.
‘Kayode Ajani writes from Ibadan. 08104260476 ajanikayode2@gmail.com
