Olubadan: Obasanjo Urges Ladoja to Separate Tradition from Politics

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has sent a message of goodwill to Oba Abdul-Rasheed Adewolu Ladoja, the newly installed 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, with a call to keep tradition distinct from politics.

In his congratulatory letter ahead of the monarch’s coronation, Obasanjo described the Olubadan throne as a sacred office that requires neutrality, wisdom, and leadership above partisan interests. He emphasized that traditional rulers should not compete or conflict with political leaders in the discharge of their duties.

“Traditional rulership does not compete or conflict with political rulership. To succeed in this revered role, qualities such as humility, patience, divine wisdom, tolerance, and openness to advice are essential,” Obasanjo wrote.

The former president also offered prayers for the new monarch, invoking the Yoruba blessing: “Ade a pe lori, bata a pe lese,” which translates as “May your crown endure and your shoes last long.”

Obasanjo’s counsel is seen as particularly significant given Ladoja’s political background. A former governor of Oyo State, he has remained an influential figure in both political and traditional circles. His ascension to the Olubadan throne has drawn nationwide attention, with observers stressing the importance of his ability to balance his past political experience with the demands of his new traditional role.

The coronation of Oba Ladoja, which has already sparked excitement across Ibadanland, is expected to reinforce the cultural heritage of the Yoruba people while ushering in a new era of leadership for the historic city.

By urging a clear separation of politics from tradition, Obasanjo underscored the need to preserve the authority and unity of traditional institutions, warning against the risks of partisanship undermining their integrity.