The Olubadan Stadium became a living canvas on Tuesday. Ibadan’s soul danced in the open, as thousands gathered to honour tradition and crown a new king.
Masquerades twirled. Talking drums spoke. Dancers moved like wind through history. It was Cultural Day—part of the weeklong celebration for the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja.
From chiefs to artisans, from elders to children, the crowd came from every corner of the city. Ibadan stood tall, proud of its roots.
“It is Ibadan’s story we are telling today,” said Chief Bayo Oyero, Chairman of the Coronation Committee. “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.”
The celebration fell on Oba Ladoja’s birthday, adding a layer of joy to the day. Oyero urged everyone to join the rest of the week’s events.
“Today is cultural, tomorrow is intellectual, and by Friday, we crown our king,” he said. “I call on all Ibadan sons and daughters to be part of history.”
Chief Ajeniyi Ajewole, CCII President-General, described the new monarch as a visionary. “Olubadan is not only a custodian of culture but also a statesman of national importance,” he said. “He has shared his dream with us, to make Ibadan an Eduardo, a city of excellence comparable to global capitals.”
A King with a Vision
Chief Adegboye Adegoke, co-chair of the Special Planning Committee, called the Cultural Day the beginning of something bigger.
“What we are witnessing today is the heartbeat of Ibadan in dance and music,” he said. “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.”
The coronation lecture holds today at the University of Ibadan’s International Conference Centre. The grand event will take place Friday at Mapo Hall, Mapo Hill.
President Bola Tinubu is expected to attend, and traffic diversions have been announced. Markets across Ibadan will shut down on Friday in honour of the new king.
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