Oyo State Government on Monday presented instrument of office to Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, High Chief Rashidi Ladoja following his acceptance to wear beaded crown in line with the amendment of Olubadan Chieftaincy Declaration.
Performing the function at the expansive Olubadan-in-council Chamber at the newly commissioned Olubadan Palace, Oke Aremo, the acting governor , Barr Bayo Lawal stated that the epoch making event put an end to all controversies surrounding beaded-crown monarch in Ibadan.
He emphasized that Governor Seyi Makinde led government will continue to prioritise efforts that will enhance the status of the royal system in the state and make it a worthy reference point for other South-West states.
While presenting the Staff of Office and the Certificate to Oba (Senator) Rashidi Ladoja, the Acting Governor congratulated him on the acceptance of the beaded crown.
“On behalf of the governor of the state, I greet the people of Ibadan.
“We thank God that, today, all the controversies surrounding the issue of the beaded crown have come to an end even without external interference.
“I want to use this avenue to also thank the CCII President-General, the Aare Musulumi of Oyo, Edo and Delta and other dignitaries here present.
“Ibadan, as we all know, is a city of elites. If the city is peaceful, we believe the entire Yorubaland will be peaceful.
“In Oyo State, we believe that if we want to make progress, there must be little changes in how things should be done. Part of it is what we are doing here today. We want the royalty, monarchy to be well-founded and well-established in Oyo State.
“We believe if this is established in Oyo State, it will be a reference point in the entire Yorubaland.
“So, on behalf of the Governor of Oyo State, I have the opportunity of presenting the instrument of office to HRM Oba Rashidi Ladoja, the Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, following the conferment of Obaship on him by His Imperial Majesty, Oba Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin 1, the Olubadan of Ibadandland.
“In exercise of the powers conferred on me by Cap 28 Volume 1 of the Chiefs Law of Oyo State of Nigeria, 2000, and any other powers in that behalf, I confer on you the title of Royal Majesty, Oba Senator Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, the Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland.”
The newly elevated Oba Rashidi Ladoja in his speech appreciated Oyo State Governor, Engr Seyi Makinde for the efforts put together to ensure peace reigns in Ibadanland.
Oba Ladoja expressed his appreciation to all indigenes of Ibadanland for their support, praying for the progress of Ibadanland and Oyo State.
