By Ademola Adekusibe
September 10, 2025
Ibadan, Oyo State, The Olubadan-Designate, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has urged traditional rulers across Yorubaland to embrace unity, peaceful coexistence, and the preservation of Yoruba culture and traditions, emphasizing that these values are essential for the collective progress of the Yoruba people.
Oba Ladoja made the appeal during a visit from the Elerinmo of Erinmo-Ijesa, Oba Michael Adeyemi Odunayo Adeagbo Ajayi, who came to congratulate him at his Bodija residence in Ibadan. The Olubadan-Designate described the visit as a demonstration of solidarity from Erinmo-Ijesa.
“The Yoruba heritage is cherished and respected worldwide. We must ensure that nothing is done to tarnish these values or our cultural heritage,” Oba Ladoja said.
He further urged his fellow monarchs to prioritize peaceful coexistence, stressing that collaboration among traditional rulers is vital for promoting and safeguarding the rich cultural values that make Yorubaland globally admired.
Oba Ladoja’s call for unity comes amid ongoing disputes over chieftaincy titles and succession within some traditional institutions in the region. His leadership is seen as key to fostering harmony among the diverse monarchs of Yorubaland.
As the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Ladoja is scheduled for formal installation on September 26, 2025, at Mapo Hall in Ibadan. His ascension is widely anticipated to mark a new era of unity and cultural renaissance in Yorubaland.
