New Olubadan, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, Declares Himself King of All Religions

The newly installed Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has declared himself the “king of all religions,” pledging to serve all residents of Ibadan, regardless of their faith or social status.

Oba Ladoja made the statement on Sunday during a thanksgiving service held at the Church of the Ascension in Ibadan, following his coronation ceremony.

The former Oyo State governor was officially crowned as the 44th Olubadan on Friday by Governor Seyi Makinde at the historic Mapo Hall.

Speaking at the thanksgiving, the monarch emphasized his commitment to the unity and development of Ibadan.

“We are all governing Ibadan; I’m just the coordinator. You are the small Olubadans—I’m the big Olubadan,” he said, drawing laughter and applause from the congregation.

“By God’s grace and with your support, Ibadan will be great. I am now the king of all religions. Ibadan is a fertile land, and it shall continue to prosper,” he added.

Oba Ladoja further noted that the success of his reign would be a collective achievement, not just his alone.

“I am the Olubadan for all. The progress of Ibadan during my reign will be shared by the Olubadan-in-Council and the entire people of Ibadanland.”