In a rousing display of inclusive leadership just days after his historic coronation, the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, has proclaimed himself the “Big Olubadan” and “king of all religions,” vowing to unite Ibadan’s diverse populace under a banner of peace, progress, and unwavering service. The 81-year-old monarch made the audacious declaration during a thanksgiving service at the Church of the Ascension in Ibadan on Sunday, emphasizing his commitment to transcend tribal, social, and faith-based divides in steering the ancient Yoruba city toward prosperity.
Flanked by royal attendants and dignitaries, Ladoja, bedecked in his beaded crown and flowing white agbada, addressed the congregation with characteristic charisma and gravitas. “I’m Big Olubadan. I’m now king of all religions,” he stated emphatically, drawing applause from the packed pews that included Christian leaders, Muslim imams, and traditional worshippers. The remarks, captured in viral videos circulating on social media, underscore Ladoja’s vision for an Ibadan where “no one is left behind—regardless of status or faith.” He pledged to champion development initiatives, foster communal harmony, and resolve lingering chieftaincy disputes that have occasionally rocked the throne’s rotational system.
The service marked the spiritual capstone to Ladoja’s whirlwind enthronement, following his Friday coronation at Mapo Hall by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, who presented the Staff of Office amid fanfare from President Bola Tinubu, Ooni of Ife Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, and other pan-Yoruba figures. Ladoja’s 32-year ascent—from Mogaji in the 1980s to Otun Olubadan—culminated in a ceremony blending pomp with poignant nods to his predecessor, the late Oba Saliu Adetunji. Yet, it was gospel singer Bola Are’s anointing of the throne with a Jerusalem horn that set the tone for Sunday’s interfaith vibe, symbolizing divine endorsement for Ladoja’s ecumenical reign.
Ladoja’s “king of all religions” boast has sparked a mix of admiration and memes online, with #BigOlubadan trending on X. Fans hailed it as a masterstroke for unity in Nigeria’s polarized landscape: “From politician to paramount ruler—Ladoja just leveled up to spiritual boss! 🇳🇬👑,” tweeted one user, while another quipped, “King of all religions? Even the ancestors are nodding in approval.” Critics, however, raised eyebrows at the self-aggrandizing tone, with a few X posts joking, “Big Olubadan? Make it ‘Supreme Overlord’ next time 😂.” But the overwhelming sentiment celebrates his inclusivity, especially amid rising religious tensions in the Southwest.
A former Oyo governor and senator known for his no-nonsense style—recall his 2018 standoff against chieftaincy reforms—Ladoja’s words echo his post-coronation promise of “lasting peace and prosperity.” With Ibadan’s population swelling past 3 million and infrastructure strains mounting, his reign could prove pivotal in modernizing the warrior city’s legacy while honoring its 17th-century roots.
As fireworks light up Oke Aremo Palace tonight, Ladoja’s bold brag sets a unifying tone for his era. Will it bridge divides or just meme its way into history? Ibadan—and Nigeria—watches with bated breath.