Olubadan at 82: ADP Guber Candidate Kunle Olatunji Felicitates Oba Ladoja

Olatunji described the milestone as an important occasion to honour the life, leadership and service of the revered monarch, who is also a former Governor of Oyo State and former Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Oba Ladoja clocks 82 on Friday, September 25, 2026, while Saturday, September 26, marks his first anniversary on the Olubadan throne. The monarch had earlier urged friends and well-wishers to observe the twin occasions with thanksgiving and prayers rather than elaborate celebrations.

In his congratulatory message, KTJ acknowledged the historical significance of the Olubadan institution and the important place it occupies in the cultural and traditional identity of Ibadanland.

He celebrated Oba Ladoja for his decades of public service and leadership, noting that the monarch's transition from political leadership to the traditional institution has added another chapter to his long-standing relationship with the people of Ibadan and Oyo State.

According to Olatunji, the occasion provides an opportunity for the people of Oyo State to appreciate the Olubadan's contributions to public life, while also praying for continued wisdom, strength and good health for the monarch.

The ADP governorship candidate further described Ibadan as a city with a rich history, cultural heritage and strong traditional institution, stressing the importance of preserving the values and customs that have sustained the ancient city over generations.

KTJ Hails Olubadan's Leadership

Olatunji's congratulatory message comes as the Olubadan marks his first full year on the throne. Oba Ladoja was crowned the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland on September 26, 2025, following the passing of his predecessor, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin.

Since ascending the throne, the monarch has continued to engage on issues concerning the development, unity and welfare of Ibadanland. Reports on his first year on the throne have highlighted his engagement with government and community issues, including matters relating to security, economic development and the interests of Ibadanland.

KTJ, while extending his felicitations, prayed that the Olubadan would continue to enjoy the support and goodwill of the people as he advances in age and continues his service to the traditional institution.

A Call for Thanksgiving and Goodwill

The ADP candidate also aligned his celebration with the monarch's call for a modest observance of the birthday and coronation anniversary.

Oba Ladoja had appealed to his friends and well-wishers to use the occasions to give thanks to God and pray for Ibadanland, Oyo State and Nigeria. He also encouraged acts of generosity towards people facing difficult circumstances, including children in motherless babies' homes.

Olatunji extended his warm wishes to the Olubadan's family, the Olubadan-in-Council, traditional chiefs, Mogajis, Baales, indigenes of Ibadanland and residents of Oyo State.

He prayed for many more years of sound health, wisdom and fulfilment for the monarch, while wishing the people of Ibadanland continued peace, unity and prosperity.

Kunle Olatunji is the ADP governorship candidate for Oyo State in the 2027 election. His campaign identifies seven priority areas, including education and human-capacity development, infrastructure, healthcare, commerce, energy, security and agriculture.

As Oba Rashidi Ladoja celebrates his 82nd birthday and first anniversary on the throne, KTJ joins the growing stream of goodwill messages celebrating the revered traditional ruler and wishing him a long and impactful reign.