Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has urged the newly installed Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Abdul-Rasheed Adewolu Ladoja, to separate traditional rulership from politics, stressing that his new position demands humility, patience, and tolerance.

In a statement issued by his Special Assistant on Media, Kehinde Akinyemi, and made available in Abeokuta, Obasanjo extended his royal salutations to the monarch, praying in Yoruba, “Ade a pe lori, bata a pe lese,” meaning “may your crown endure and your shoes last long.”

Obasanjo, who is currently in New York for the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly, described the Olubadan’s formal coronation as a mere formality following the announcement of his ascension.

In his congratulatory letter dated July 14, 2025, the former President said: “It is an exalted and responsible position to be a traditional ruler of all the Ibadan people.

“It requires humility, patience, divine wisdom, tolerance, and advice from wide and varied quarters to succeed.
“Traditional rulership does not compete or conflict with political rulership. I wish you all the best and the grace, guidance, and direction of Almighty God.”

Obasanjo congratulated Oba Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadan and wished him a successful reign as the ancient city prepares for his formal coronation on Friday in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.