The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, has attributed his emergence as the 44th Olubadan to divine intervention rather than financial influence, declaring that no amount of money could have secured the throne for him.
The monarch stated this on Tuesday while hosting the Belgian Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Peter Leenknegt, at the Olubadan Palace, Oke-Aremo, Ibadan North Local Government Area of Oyo State.
Ladoja, who succeeded the late Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, said his ascension was a fulfilment of divine purpose and not a product of manipulation or wealth.
He said, “My ascension to the throne of Ibadanland is divine. It is not the Ifa oracle that chooses an Olubadan. It is not money either — it is the grace of long life granted by God. I thank Him for making this possible.”
The former Oyo State governor noted that his focus as the city’s paramount ruler would be the protection of all residents, regardless of their ethnic, political or religious affiliations.
He added that the palace was already working to ensure sustainable peace in Ibadanland by tackling social problems such as unemployment and drug abuse.
“We cannot talk about peace without addressing the issue of stomach infrastructure,” the Olubadan said.
“Our youths must be meaningfully engaged. When they are busy and well-catered for, the problem of drug addiction, which threatens the foundation of Ibadan, will reduce.”
The monarch appreciated the Belgian government for showing interest in partnering with Ibadan, noting that the city possesses vast agricultural potential and mineral resources.
He said, “Ibadan has large expanses of arable land suitable for agriculture and grazing. We have the capacity to collaborate with Belgium to develop these sectors.
The Ambassador also introduced a platform of French-speaking Ambassadors, and I will be glad to host them soon to discuss possible investments in Ibadan.”
In his remarks, Ambassador Leenknegt revealed that cocoa had overtaken crude oil as Nigeria’s top export to Belgium.
He said, “Since 2024, cocoa has become Nigeria’s leading export to Belgium. The rise in cocoa prices has improved farmers’ livelihoods and diversified our bilateral trade relations.”
In a related visit, the Olubadan also received the Olofin of Isheri, Lagos, Oba Ibrahim Bello, and called on traditional rulers to uphold discipline and integrity within the institution.
Ladoja emphasised that Yoruba monarchs must lead by example and promote unity, cultural values and good governance.
Oba Bello, in his response, praised the Olubadan’s leadership style and prayed for his long life and good health.
Dignitaries present included members of the Olubadan Advisory Council and other title holders.
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