All roads will converge on the historic Mapo Hall, the venue of the epoch-making coronation of Oba Rashidi Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, where the coronation, Ibadan is preparing for a roll call of Nigeria’s crème de la crème. The event is expected to surpass any in Olubadan history, with dignitaries led by President Bola Tinubu, who has confirmed his attendance in honour of his friend.
Also expected are former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, governors, ex-governors, former ministers, traditional rulers, captains of industry, and other prominent personalities.
Governor Seyi Makinde will play host to the distinguished guests at what is already being described as the most glamorous and widely attended Olubadan coronation in history.
The coronation marks a continuation of Ibadan’s centuries-old succession tradition, widely regarded as one of the most orderly and rancour-free systems in Yorubaland.
From Ring Road to Bodija, Mokola to Oja’ba, and the surrounding axis, the city is already agog with cultural displays, drumming, and processions as residents prepare to welcome their new monarch.
Hotels across the metropolis have been fully booked, with visitors trooping in from across Nigeria and beyond.
From Dugbe to Challenge, from Gate to Ojoo, the ancient city has taken on a new look. Colourful posters, banners, and giant billboards bearing the portrait of Oba Ladoja, resplendent in royal regalia, adorn major streets and roundabouts.
Slogans such as “Long Live the Olubadan,” “Ibadan Pride, Yoruba Glory,” and “Oba Ladoja: A King for the People” beam at motorists and pedestrians alike.
The visual flood of banners and billboards adds to the festive atmosphere, turning the city into one grand canvas of celebration. At night, illuminated billboards light up the skyline, giving Ibadan a carnival-like ambience ahead of the historic coronation.
His journey
Every journey to the Olubadan throne begins with becoming a Mogaji — the head of the extended family compound. For Ladoja, this came in the 1980s when he was installed as the Mogaji of the Ladoja family of Arusa Compound, Isale-Osi, Ibadan. Ladoja became Jagun Olubadan on October 1, 1993. He was installed by the famous Olubadan Asanike. After his promotion to Jagun Olubadan, the very first rung on the Egbe Agba line, which marked his formal entry into the chieftaincy hierarchy, it became a gradual but steady climb up the ranks, with each title carrying greater responsibility within Ibadan’s traditional administration. He successfully climbed the 22 steps to reach the Olubadan throne.
For the Otun line from where Ladoja emerged, the movement is from Jagun Olubadan – Ajia – Bada – Aare Onibon – Gbonnka – Aare Egbe Omo-Oota – Lagunna – Aare Ago – Ayingun – Asaju – Ikolaba – Aare Alasa – Agba Akin – Ekefa – Maye – Abese – Ekarun Olubadan – Ekerin Olubadan – Ashipa Olubadan – Osi Olubadan – Otun Olubadan and eventually Olubadan.
In 2022, Ladoja was formally elevated to the position of Otun Olubadan, the second-in-command to the Olubadan and the highest-ranking chief on the Egbe Agba line. He thus became the most senior of the Ibadan civil chiefs, which placed him next in line to become the Olubadan.
He played a key role in nominating the late Oba Lekan Balogun and also presided over the nomination process for the late Oba Owolabi Olakulehin.”
Obstacles cleared
In 2017, when the late Governor Abiola Ajimobi elevated 21 obas in Ibadan, Ladoja stood alone with the then Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Saliu Adetunji. His belief in the dignity and structure of the Ibadan chieftaincy system made him an outspoken critic of the attempt to tamper with its succession process at the time. He challenged the late governor in court.
When Governor Makinde reinvented the same law and re-crowned the monarchs, Ladoja, now a lone voice, stood away again. For Ladoja, “I only want to adorn one crown and that is the Olubadan crown.” He also said, “My journey on the Olubadan line is not about politics. It is a matter of tradition, identity, and service.”
He maintained that Ibadan’s chieftaincy system must not be politicised or commercialised. “Ibadan does not need multiple kings,” he argued, insisting that the hierarchical order that allows a Mogaji to one day become Olubadan is one of the city’s most democratic and egalitarian legacies.
During the coronation of the late Oba Olakulehin on July 12, 2024, the government issued a gazette introducing a new law that required all Ibadan high chiefs to accept obaship titles before they could be promoted.”
Section 4 of the amendment, titled “New Olubadan Chieftaincy Declaration,” replaced “the most Senior (High) Chief in that line” with “the most Senior Beaded Crown Oba in that line.”
Section 4 of the new law states: “The person who may be proposed as a candidate by the Line whose turn it is to fill a vacancy in the office of the Olubadan shall be the most Senior Beaded Crown Oba in that line.”
Ibadan elders then met with Ladoja and prevailed on him to take the beaded crown. Announcing his readiness to accept the beaded crown at a radio programme in Ibadan in August 2024, Ladoja said various Ibadan indigenes and non-indigenes had pressured him to accept the beaded crown to facilitate his ascension to the throne when the time came. On August 12, 2024, Oba Olakulehin, in his first official duty after his coronation, crowned Ladoja as an Ibadan oba.
• Ladoja’s family house at Isale Osi, Ibadan. Photos: Gabriel Oshokha
Dream come true
For Oba Ladoja, the Arusa I and 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, today marks the fulfilment of a lifelong dream. It is a day he had long anticipated and spoken into existence many years ago. He never left anyone in doubt that he would one day wear the crown of the Olubadan. He will go down in history as the first Olubadan from his family compound and from the community.
His words and dreams finally come to pass. In August 2024, while presenting himself for the beaded crown, he declared on the radio programme: “By the grace of God, I will become Olubadan. God has been merciful to me. My blood pressure has been stable. Anyone God has destined to become Olubadan will become Olubadan. No matter the obstacles placed in their way. I’m ready to accept Ibadan’s ceremonial beaded crown if it’s the wish of God and the good people of Ibadanland. Only God knows who becomes Olubadan. I know by the special grace of God, I will become Olubadan.” Today, he is the Olubadan of Ibadanland.
Ladoja enjoyed a cordial relationship with past Olubadans, including Oba Lana Odugade, Oba Adetunji, and the immediate-past Olubadan, Oba Olakulehin.
The 41st Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Adetunji (Aje Ogunguniso I), once prayed for Ladoja, declaring that he would live to become Olubadan. This prayer came after both men had stood firmly against reforms introduced by the late Governor Abiola Ajimobi, which promoted high chiefs to Obas. While many chiefs supported Ajimobi’s moves, only Oba Adetunji and Ladoja resisted, standing together through the storm. In appreciation of Ladoja’s loyalty, Oba Adetunji blessed him with prayers. For Adetunji, who was the first in his lineage to ascend the throne, he understood the rarity of such privilege. Today, history repeats itself as Ladoja becomes the first from Arusa Compound to mount the throne of the Olubadan of Ibadanland.
This coronation marks a new chapter in Ibadan’s history. Nigeria has produced traditional rulers who were once retired generals, police officers, or accomplished businessmen. Some, including past Olubadans, also served as lawmakers in both the federal and regional legislatures. In the North, Alhaji Mohammed Awwal Ibrahim, Sarkin Zazzau Suleja, was elected governor of Niger State between October 1979 and October 1983 before ascending the throne. In the South-West, the late Oba Adesoji Aderemi, the Ooni of Ife, was the only traditional ruler to have also held a political office, serving as governor of the Western Region by appointment in 1960. Ladoja, however, becomes the first in the South-West to bestride both spheres through electoral politics and monarchy. He governed Oyo State between 2003 and 2007, though his tenure was briefly interrupted by an illegal impeachment overturned by the Supreme Court in December 2006. A decade earlier, in 1993, he had been elected senator under the Social Democratic Party (SDP), representing Ibadan South Senatorial District.”
Loved, popular oba
In history, Oba Ladoja will be remembered as one of the most popular Olubadans, judging by the overwhelming joy and acceptance that greeted his emergence. Across family compounds, streets, and major roads in Ibadan, signposts, flyers, billboards, and banners proclaim congratulations to the 44th Olubadan on his ascension. From Mokola to Mapo, from Bodija to Oke-Ado, the city wears a festive look, as though every household feels personally invested in the coronation. The atmosphere reflects the mood of a people celebrating a king deeply loved and widely admired.
Also, the array of political and traditional leaders who have paid courtesy visits to him since his emergence is a strong testimony to the affection and respect he commands. These visits, coming not only from across Ibadan but also from different parts of Oyo State and beyond, highlight the broad appeal of Oba Ladoja as well as the reverence attached to the Olubadan stool.
The steady stream of governors, lawmakers, eminent traditional rulers, and community leaders underscores that the throne of Ibadan is more than a local institution. Each visit has carried with it gestures of goodwill, messages of solidarity, and a reaffirmation that the Olubadan remains a central figure in both cultural heritage and contemporary governance.
Ladoja follows in the footsteps of some of Ibadan’s most cherished monarchs, including the late Oba Isaac Babalola Akinyele, the late Oba Yesufu Oloyede Asanike, and the late Oba Saliu Adetunji, all of whom are remembered for their bond with the masses.
Oba Ladoja’s popularity is even more compelling. His political journey is etched in the memory of the Ibadan people. His impeachment saga and the fierce battles he fought against former President Olusegun Obasanjo and the late Ibadan political warlord, Chief Lamidi Adedibu, endeared him to ordinary people as a fighter who refused to be cowed.
Civil servants remember him with fondness for paying salaries promptly, while the wider public embraced his humility and simplicity. Unlike many politicians, he shunned pomp, appearing constantly in his trademark Ankara and cap, a reflection of his closeness to the grassroots. To traders in Oje, artisans in Mokola, and market women in Dugbe, Ladoja was one of their own.
His popularity rubbed off on his successors as governor in Oyo State. The late Governor Abiola Ajimobi benefited from Ladoja’s enduring goodwill, while the incumbent Governor Makinde also rode on that same wave of grassroots acceptance to clinch victory in 2019.
The coronation of Oba Ladoja, to the people of Ibadan, is the crowning of a figure who has long commanded their affection and loyalty. For many, the banners and posters across the city are more than decoration; they are living testimonials of love, resilience, and collective memory. They celebrate not just a monarch, but a man who has fought battles, endured trials, and now ascends as custodian of Ibadan’s traditions and symbol of its future.
The friends of late Nollywood actress Temitope Osoba has announced a candlelight and artist night in honour of the deceased actress.
The event, tagged “An Evening of Love, Music & Memories”, is scheduled to hold on Tuesday, August 11, at LTV 8 (Blueroof), Ikeja, Lagos.
According to a flyer shared on her Instagram handle o Friday, the event will begin at 5pm.
The organisers described the gathering as an opportunity to celebrate Osoba’s life, creativity and contribution to the arts.
“Her voice, her art, her spirit… will remain in our hearts,” the organisers stated.
The announcement comes days after the death of the actress, who died at the age of 40.
Her death was announced on Wednesday by fellow actor Alesh Sanni in an emotional post shared on his Instagram page.
Sanni, who described Osoba as his “dearest sister”, said he had been unable to sleep after learning of her death.
He wrote, “Couldn’t sleep since last night, it’s well. Rest in peace my dearest sister, Temitope Osoba. We had amazing time and good memories together, till we meet again. I really dunno what to say mehn, gosh.”
Another actress, Adeyemo Seilat, also mourned Osoba in an Instagram reel.
She wrote, “Sigh! I hate to hear about the death of young people. Life is vanity! Rest in peace Tope Osoba. May you find eternal rest.”
The actress’ death came about two years after she publicly spoke about her battle with cancer and sought support for her treatment.
Following her recovery, Osoba announced her return to the movie industry in August 2025, describing her experience with cancer as a life-changing journey.
She wrote, “Dear beloved fans, supporters, and loved ones, I’m Temitope Osoba, and after my cancer experience, I’m excited to announce my reintroduction.”
Osoba said she was returning to the industry with a renewed focus on healing, growth and empowerment and expressed her desire to use her platform to promote cancer awareness and support people facing similar challenges.
She also thanked her management team for standing by her during her health challenges and said she was open to acting roles, endorsements and event collaborations.
Meanwhile, the family has urged the public and media to disregard reports about the circumstances surrounding her death that have not been authorised by them.
In a statement shared through Osoba’s official social media page, the family said several claims circulating on social media and blogs were “false, speculative, and entirely unauthorized.”
The family urged the public to allow them privacy and time to grieve, adding that any information it decides to make public would be communicated through its official channels or authorised representatives.
The statement was signed by the Family of Awonuga/Osoba.
Osoba was known for her roles in Yoruba-language Nollywood productions and was remembered by colleagues and fans for her talent and creativity.
The August 11 candlelight and artist night is expected to bring together family, friends, colleagues, artistes and admirers to honour her memory.
President Bola Tinubu on Thursday extended his condolences to former Minister of Finance, Kemi Adeosun, over the passing of her husband, Anthony Adeosun, on Wednesday at the age of 62.
Tinubu conveyed his condolences in a statement signed Thursday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, titled ‘President Tinubu condoles with former Minister of Finance, Adeosun family over passing of Anthony Adeniyi Adeosun.’
Anthony Adeosun’s death was announced in a statement issued by Rev C. A. Adeosun on behalf of the Adeosun family on Thursday,
The statement, which was made available to The PUNCH, was titled ‘Announcement of the passing of Mr Anthony Adeniyi (Niyi) Adeosun.’
“It is with profound sorrow, yet in total submission to the will of Almighty God, that the Adeosun family announces the passing of our beloved husband, father, and brother, Mr Anthony Adeniyi (Niyi) Adeosun, who was called home to glory on Wednesday, 5th August 2026, in Lagos.
“He was 62 years old. Niyi was a distinguished businessman and a devoted Christian whose integrity, generosity, and steadfast faith touched the lives of all who knew him.
“He lived a life defined by hard work, service to God, and an unwavering commitment to his family and community,” the statement read.
The family sought comfort in God “during this difficult period as we grieve our irreplaceable loss.”
According to the statement, details of the funeral and Christian burial arrangements will be communicated in due course.
The deceased is survived by his wife, Kemi; his children; and his siblings, including the founder of Kuramo Capital, Adewale Adeosun, among others.
“We thank all who have reached out with prayers, condolences, and support. May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace in the bosom of the Lord,” the statement concluded.
Condoling with the family, Tinubu noted the outpouring of testimonies on the life and good works of Mr Adeosun, particularly his dedication to supporting the less privileged, describing him as a devout Christian whose commitment to charitable causes had touched many lives.
“The President condoles with the Adeosun family, friends and business associates over the loss, urging comfort in the legacies of steadfast faith, community service and charity that the devout Christian left behind,” the statement read.
The President, therefore, prayed that God would grant the former minister and the Adeosun family strength and comfort during this difficult period, and grant the deceased eternal rest.
Kemi Adeosun served as Minister of Finance from 2015 to 2018 under the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, during which she engineered the country’s economic policy response to the 2016 recession.
Nollywood actor, Charles Okocha, has dismissed claims by singer, Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, that he bit him during their recent celebrity boxing rematch.
The pair squared off at the Balmoral Convention Centre in Lagos on Friday, with Okocha emerging victorious after Portable was disqualified for violating the rules by abandoning wrestling techniques for punches before walking out of the ring.
Following the bout, Portable alleged that Okocha bit him on the back and locked his neck during the contest, insisting he should not have participated in such a match.
Reacting during an appearance on TVC Entertainment on Tuesday, Okocha denied the allegation, explaining that he was wearing a mouth guard throughout the fight, making it impossible for him to bite his opponent.
“Portable has been going around telling people I bit him on the back. I was wearing a mouth guard; how is that even possible? He was just lying,” Okocha said.
The actor added that he had no reason to bite the singer.
“I would rather chew grass than bite him. I don’t want to catch rabies. Have you seen how Portable’s skin looks? Hell no, I wouldn’t do that. He should just accept defeat,” he said.
The latest encounter was not the first boxing contest between the two entertainers.
In 2023, Portable defeated Okocha in a celebrity boxing match held at Landmark Beach, Victoria Island, Lagos, claiming the championship belt.
Portable also recently lost another celebrity boxing contest to skit maker, Carter Efe.
After that defeat, he alleged there was foul play, claiming his opponent held him by the neck with his long arms, and demanded ₦200 million in compensation from the organisers, saying his wife was in labour while he was in the ring.
