“You Have Lived A Fulfilled Life” — Hon. Tolani Adigun Mourns Late Olubadan, Congratulates Oba Ladoja, Says “May Your Reign Be Fruitful”

Ibadan, Oyo State – July 7, 2025

APC House of Assembly candidate for Ibadan Southwest Constituency I in the 2023 general election, Hon. Tolani Adigun, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Olakulehin Ige, who died in the early hours of Monday, July 7, 2025 — just 48 hours after his 90th birthday celebration.

In a heartfelt statement made available to the press, Hon. Tolani described the late monarch as a revered traditional ruler who lived a fulfilled life marked by wisdom, humility, and unwavering dedication to the progress of Ibadanland. She stated that the Kabiyesi was a custodian of the city’s rich cultural heritage and a bridge between ancient traditions and modern governance. According to her, his demise is not just a loss to Ibadan alone but to the entire Yoruba nation, given the impact of his reign and the peace that defined his leadership.

While mourning the passage of the great monarch, Hon. Tolani also extended her warm congratulations to Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, the former Governor of Oyo State and one-time senator of the Federal Republic, who is next in line to ascend the exalted throne of the Olubadan of Ibadanland. She noted that the emergence of Oba Ladoja as the incoming Olubadan marks the beginning of a new chapter in the leadership of the city—one that is full of hope, inclusion, and the promise of far-reaching development.

Hon. Tolani described Oba Ladoja as a symbol of resilience and a man deeply rooted in the affairs of the people. She acknowledged his track record of service as both senator and governor, noting that these experiences have equipped him with the vision and leadership qualities needed to guide Ibadanland in this modern era. She added that she is confident that his reign will bring about peace, unity, and transformational growth in the city and beyond. According to her, Oba Ladoja’s leadership journey is one that speaks volumes of commitment to excellence, and she prayed that his reign as Olubadan would be long, prosperous, and fruitful.

Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State, remains one of the most respected and influential cities in Yorubaland. Known for its deep history, cultural pride, and strategic relevance, the city operates a unique and highly structured obaship succession system that sets it apart from other Yoruba towns and kingdoms. Unlike the traditional model where kingship rotates within specific ruling families, Ibadan’s succession to the throne is built on a civil chieftaincy hierarchy, where advancement is based on seniority and years of meritorious service to the community. This system, which has evolved over time, has proven to be a model of stability, equity, and predictability.

Hon. Tolani praised this orderly process, noting that it reinforces Ibadan’s identity as the “Pace Setter State” in both governance and tradition. She emphasized that the system, though unique, reflects fairness, transparency, and an enduring respect for structure and loyalty. According to her, it is a system that rewards service and encourages unity, ensuring that only those who have contributed significantly to the city’s growth are given the honor of leading it.

As Ibadan navigates this moment of reflection and transition—mourning the passage of one royal father and preparing to crown another—Hon. Tolani Adigun’s tribute captures a sentiment shared by many: a deep sense of cultural pride, communal solidarity, and great optimism for what lies ahead. She concluded her message by expressing confidence in the future of Ibadanland under the incoming reign of Oba Rashidi Ladoja, whose leadership she believes will further elevate the legacy of the ancient city.