The senator representing Oyo South Senatorial District in the National Assembly, Sharafadeen Alli, has called on all Ibadan indigenes at home and in the diaspora to rally behind Oba Ladoja in the collective interest of Ibadanland.
The lawmaker congratulated former Oyo State governor, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, on his nomination as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland by the Olubadan-in-Council.
Alli, who is also the Ekarun-Balogun of Ibadanland, made this known in a statement he signed and made available to journalists on Tuesday in Ibadan. The statement described the development as a historic and well-deserved elevation for a distinguished son of Ibadan.
Alli expressed gratitude to God for preserving the life of Oba Ladoja to ascend the ancient throne at this crucial time in the history of Ibadanland.
He commended the Olubadan-in-Council for upholding the sanctity of the traditional succession system, which has continued to bring peace and order to the Ibadan conventional institution.
The lawmaker said Ladoja’s nomination reflected the strength and resilience of Ibadan’s unique chieftaincy system, which he described as a model in the country.
Alli expressed confidence in Oba Ladoja’s ability to bring his wealth of experience, maturity, and wisdom to bear on the governance of the traditional institution.
He said that the former governor had always shown deep commitment to the unity, development and cultural heritage of Ibadanland.
The lawmaker said that the kingmakers’ choice of Oba Ladoja was a reward for his selfless service, love for the people, and undying loyalty to the customs and traditions of Ibadan.
The lawmaker expressed optimism that the reign of Oba Ladoja would usher in peace, prosperity and enhanced development for all sons and daughters of Ibadanland.
Alli pledged his support and cooperation to the traditional ruler (whom he described as his father, leader and mentor). As a proud indigene and high chief of Ibadanland, he remained committed to the progress of the ancient city.
The lawmaker prayed that Almighty God would grant Oba Ladoja a long life, sound health, and divine wisdom to steer the affairs of the traditional institution and elevate Ibadan to greater heights among Yoruba and Nigerian cities.
