- Safiu Kehinde
The newly crowned Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Rashidi Ladoja on Tuesday said his new position compels him to be for everyone and for no one in particular.
Ladoja said as the father of all, he is no longer into partisan politics but to serve humanity as a whole.
He stated these when former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, and former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, paid homage on Tuesday.
“My dear friends, welcome. Even though I am no longer a politician, the ties we share remain strong,” Ladoja said during the visit.
Meanwhile Atiku, in a statement later issued on his official X handle, cited protocol logistics as reason behind his absence at coronation ceremony.
The ex-Vice President however expressed his delight with Ladoja’s ability to recall the names of every member of the delegate.
He prayed for longevity and sound health for the Olubadan.
“I was elated that the Olubadan called every member of the delegation by their names, remembering our time together in the public service.
“Indeed, His Royal Highness and all of us had shared decades of time of service to our dear nation.
“I am proud that Kabiyesi, a longstanding associate, has ascended the throne of his forebears.
“I regret my inability to be physically present for the historic coronation due to protocol logistics. Please overlook and forgive me. Mo dobale, Kabiyesi.
“It is my prayer that you will enjoy a long reign in good health and vitality that will usher in more growth, prosperity, and peaceful Ibadanland
“I trust the assurance of Oba Ladoja to serve justice to his people across all religious or political divides.
“I profoundly thank Ibadan people who turned up in their numbers to receive me and my delegation at the city gate.” Atiku wrote.