The Special Adviser to Governor Seyi Makinde on Legislative Matters and 2027 governorship hopeful, Honorable Samuel Adejumobi popularly known as Agbarapo, has expressed optimism that the reign of the Olubadan-designate, Oba Rasheed Adewolu Ladoja, will bring a new wave of peace, unity, and socioeconomic growth to Ibadanland.
‘Agbarapo’ made this disclosure in a congratulatory message to the new king on Wednesday shortly after Governor Makinde officially approved the nomination of the former governor of Oyo State as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.
He stated this in a personally signed congratulatory message to the Olubadan-designate on Thursday, August 21.
According to him, Oba Ladoja’s long-standing reputation as a statesman, administrator, accomplished businessman, and bridge-builder across political, cultural, and social divides places him in the right position to consolidate Ibadan’s historical influence and stimulate development across the metropolitan city.
“Ibadan is about to witness a new dawn under Kabiyesi Ladoja. His wealth of experience, coupled with his deep love for Ibadanland and its people, will no doubt open doors of unprecedented socioeconomic growth.
“With his already established reputation in public and private life, his reign will unite our people and strengthen our cultural identity in the comity of Yoruba towns and beyond,” Agbarapo said.
Agbarapo’s admiration for the Olubadan-designate goes beyond today’s felicitation, it is rooted in history. As governor between 2003 and 2007, the former governor presided over Oyo State Executive Council during a turbulent but transformative period.
At that time, Agbarapo served as the Leader of the Majority in the Oyo State House of Assembly, a role that brought him into close political alignment with Governor Ladoja.
Together, they navigated complex legislative and political battles, including moments of instability that tested the resilience of democratic governance in the state.
Despite the challenges, their collaboration laid the groundwork for reforms in governance, people-oriented policies, and a legacy of courage in the face of political adversity.
Reflecting on that era, Agbarapo noted that Ladoja’s leadership style; firm, yet accommodating, remains a defining quality that will now guide his reign as Olubadan of Ibadanland.
“Kabiyesi is not just a monarch, he is a man who has weathered political storms and still emerged respected and unbroken.
“I had the privilege of working closely with him as Majority Leader when he was governor. His wisdom, courage, and passion for the masses are traits that Ibadanland will greatly benefit from in his new role as Olubadan,” he added.
He further congratulated the Olubadan-designate, pledging his personal support and commitment to the success of his reign.
He also called on all indigenes of Ibadan, both at home and abroad, to rally around the new monarch to ensure that the city sustains its pride of place in Yorubaland and Nigeria as a whole.
Westernmirror.com.ng had earlier reported that Governor Makinde had earlier approved the nomination of Oba Ladoja, following the recommendation of the Olubadan-in-Council, paving the way for preparation ahead of his coronation as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.
Agbarapo, while commending governor Makinde for his timely approval described him as a promise keeper who has continued to serve Oyo state and humanity with utmost fear of God and love for the people.
Recalling when his political alliance with the governor began prior to the 2019 election, Agbarapo maintained that despite various degrees of mischiefs and plots to disparage him before Makinde, he has continued to repose high level of trust and confidence in him which he said has strengthened his courage amid diverse challenges.
He expressed optimism that governor Makinde, who he called a destined child has an unfinished business with the sustainable development agenda at the national level beyond 2027 while assuring that he remains resolute and committed to his vision at any level he may be required.