Oyo State Ministry of Culture and Tourism ably led by Hon. Wasiu Olatubosun played an important role in showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Ibadanland as thousands gathered in Olubadan Stadium to mark the Cultural Day Celebration to usher in Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.
The Cultural Day, which marks the second day of a weeklong series of activities leading to Friday’s coronation, drew traditional rulers, chiefs, artisans, cultural groups, and residents from across the city.
The Cultural Day afforded promoters of culture to celebrate past warriors from Ibadan and encourage future leaders from the city, while masquerades, talking drums handler and dancers entertained those that were present.
Chief Bayo Oyero, Chairman of the 44th Coronation Committee and former President-General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) while speaking at the event, said the celebration was designed to highlight Ibadan’s cultural pride and communal spirit.
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“It is Ibadan’s story we are telling today,” Oyero said.
“The Cultural Day is not just about dancing and drumming; it is about showing our children and the world that Ibadan is a city of resilience, courage, and innovation. Kabiyesi Ladoja represents all these values, and today, we honour him and our city together.”
He highlighted that the coincidence of the celebration with Oba Ladoja’s birthday added special significance, and urged residents to come out en masse for other activities lined up in the week.
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“Today is cultural, tomorrow is intellectual, and by Friday, we crown our king. I call on all Ibadan sons and daughters to be part of history,” Oyero added.
CCII President-General, Chief Ajeniyi Ajewole, described Oba Ladoja as a monarch with the capacity to lead Ibadan into a new era.
“Olubadan is not only a custodian of culture but also a statesman of national importance,” Ajewole said.
“He has shared his dream with us, to make Ibadan an Eduardo, a city of excellence comparable to global capitals. We believe his reign will open a new dawn for our people.”
Also speaking, Chief Adegboye Adegoke, the co-chairman of the Special Planning Committee said the Cultural Day was only the opening chapter of a rich programme.
“What we are witnessing today is the heartbeat of Ibadan in dance and music,” Adegoke said.
“But beyond this, tomorrow we will engage with ideas at the coronation lecture by Professor Toyin Falola, and by Friday, the whole world will see Ibadan again at the Mapo coronation ground.”
Source: InsideOyo
