Aare Adetola EmmanuelKing Celebrates the Coronation of the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland
The Aare Apesinola of Ibadanland and Chairman/CEO of Adron Group, Sir Aare Adetola EmmanuelKing, KOF, has felicitated with His Imperial Majesty, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, FNSE, on the historic occasion of his coronation as the 44th custodian of the revered throne of Ibadanland.
In his congratulatory message, Aare Adetola EmmanuelKing described the coronation as “a sacred fulfillment of divine destiny and a powerful confirmation of the timeless heritage of Ibadanland.” He noted that the Olubadan stool is a living symbol of authority and the embodiment of the Ibadan people’s indomitable spirit, collective wisdom, and resilience through the centuries.
“This enthronement is evidence of Your Imperial Majesty’s decades of service, sterling integrity, and selfless leadership. Today, Ibadan has been blessed with a king, a father to all, a custodian of tradition, and a paragon of truth, justice, and peace. Your emergence at this pivotal time assures us that Ibadan’s future is anchored on wisdom, prosperity, and unity,” he declared.
He further emphasized that the new reign marks a new dawn of hope and progress, not only for Ibadanland but also for Yorubaland and Nigeria as a whole. He pledged his loyalty and support to His Imperial Majesty, expressing confidence that under his guidance, Ibadan will continue to flourish as a cultural, political, and economic force.
He prayed for divine strength, sound health, and a long, peaceful reign for the monarch. He also urged all sons and daughters of Ibadanland to rally behind their king in unity of purpose.
“Kabiyesi o! Long may you reign in peace, honor, and greatness. May your throne continue to be a fountain of wisdom and a pillar of unity for generations to come,” he concluded.
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency has lauded the donation of a newly built canine facility by the German government, stating that it will strengthen Nigeria’s fight against illicit drugs.
The Agency’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (retd.), stated this on Friday at the commissioning of the modern canine complex in Lagos.
According to a statement issued in Abuja by NDLEA’s Director of Media and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi, the German government’s intervention demonstrates the importance it attaches to supporting Nigeria’s anti-drug campaign.
Marwa assured stakeholders that the provision of the facility would significantly boost the Agency’s capacity to fulfil its core mandate.
“The quality of the infrastructure at the new NDLEA dog facility is commendable. It speaks volumes of the commitment, goodwill and tenacity of our partners,” he said.
He commended the German government for its support over the years, noting that the Canine Unit had played a critical role in several successful operations, including the seizure of 74.119kg of captagon at Apapa Port in 2021.
While acknowledging the progress made, Marwa stressed that more work is required to sustain the current level of operational excellence.
“This newly commissioned facility will, without doubt, provide a comfortable and dignified environment that will motivate our Canine Unit personnel to discharge their duties effectively,” he said.
Marwa highlighted that NDLEA’s sniffer dogs have been instrumental in the seizure of more than 17.9 metric tonnes of illicit substances since their deployment, but that poor infrastructure had previously limited the Unit’s capacity.
He noted that the construction of the new complex, sponsored by the German Federal Criminal Police through its Liaison Office, commenced in August 2024 and was delivered on schedule.
The NDLEA boss expressed gratitude to German Consul General Daniel Krull, and officials of the German Federal Criminal Police for their role in the project.
In his remarks, Krull said NDLEA’s success benefits not only Nigeria but also Germany and the wider region.
“The amazing work of your Agency under your leadership is important for Nigeria, for the region, and for Germany. I encourage all members of NDLEA to keep up the good spirit,” he said.
Similarly, Mr Florian Bulow, Deputy Head of Section IZ14, BKA Berlin, described the collaboration with NDLEA as one of the longest-running projects in police capacity building.
“Like in a marriage, cooperation needs trust. We share the same goals and values in the fight against drug smuggling and abuse, and our long-standing teamwork has yielded these achievements,” he added.
The NDLEA has intensified its anti-drug campaign under the leadership of Marwa, recording record seizures and high-profile arrests in recent years.
The Canine Unit, established to detect concealed narcotics, has become a critical component of its operations at airports, seaports, and land borders.
Amad Diallo has temporarily left the squad following the death of a close family member, his club confirmed.
The 22-year-old winger has returned home to be with his loved ones during this difficult time. A club spokesperson expressed full support for the player, acknowledging the emotional toll of the loss.
According to a post from Fabrizio Romano’s X post on Friday, Manchester United’s coach Reuben Amorim said, “Amad is not with us as a member of his family passed away. We are giving all the support to Amad and understand he needed to return home”.
As a result of his temporary absence, Amad is likely to miss Manchester United’s early kick-off opener against Brentford on Saturday.
The 22-year-old Ivory Coast international has received messages of support from teammates, fans, and club officials, all expressing their condolences.
Barcelona suffered a double injury blow on Friday with winger Raphinha and goalkeeper Joan Garcia ruled out of upcoming matches including next week’s Champions League clash against Paris Saint-Germain.
Brazil international Raphinha is set to miss three weeks with a hamstring injury sustained in the Spanish champions’ 3-1 win at Real Oviedo on Thursday in La Liga, Barcelona said in a statement.
Spanish stopper Garcia, meanwhile, suffered a meniscus injury in his left knee and the club said he will miss “between four and six weeks”.
Garcia is set to be replaced in goal by Polish veteran Wojciech Szczesny, with Marc-Andre ter Stegen also recovering from a back operation.
Raphinha should return for Barcelona’s clash against rivals Real Madrid on October 26, but Garcia will only be able to return if his injury heals on the quicker end of the expected recovery schedule.
Barcelona are set to have winger Lamine Yamal back for Sunday’s league game against Real Sociedad following a groin injury.
”Hey! I’m back,” wrote the teenage star in a post on Instagram, alluding to his return to action after missing the team’s last four games.
Barcelona trail La Liga leaders Real Madrid by two points and opened their Champions League campaign with a 2-1 win at Newcastle.
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has formally presented the staff and certificate of office to Oba Rasidi Ladoja, officially confirming him as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.
The presentation took place at exactly 3:05 p.m. on Friday during a colourful and historic coronation ceremony held at Mapo Hall, Ibadan.
The coronation, held at Mapo Hall, was attended by notable dignitaries, including President Bola Tinubu, further highlighting the cultural and political importance of the event.
Makinde’s formal presentation of the staff and certificate of office marks the final step in legitimising Ladoja’s ascension to the throne, symbolising both tradition and continuity in Ibadan’s monarchy.
This coronation is especially notable as it brings a former state governor into a revered royal role, merging political experience with traditional leadership at a time when community influence and governance are increasingly intertwined.
Makinde, while speaking, said, “This is a momentous occasion in the presence of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in the presence of people, and in the presence of God.
“In exercise of the power conferred on me as the Governor, I hereby present the staff of office to Oba, His Imperial Majesty, Senator, Governor, Engineer, my Baba, His Imperial Majesty, Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja, Arusa 1st.
“This is in confirmation as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland. I am so present.”
The 44th Olubadan, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, has made a public appeal for the creation of Ibadan State before President Bola Tinubu on Friday.
Speaking after his installation and receiving the Staff of Office from Governor Seyi Makinde, the new monarch urged Tinubu to make this a reality before 2027.
Ladoja, speaking in Yoruba, the monarch said, “My people sent me a message to Mr President. Mr President, they said the creation of Ibadan State is their priority.”
Similarly, Governor Makinde said the emergence of Ladoja as the 44th traditional leader of the ancient city is a source of pride to the people of Ibadan.
He said, “It is a great honour to join in celebrating the coronation and presentation of the Staff of Office to His Imperial Majesty, Oba Adewolu Ladoja, as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland. The joy and excitement that fill Ibadan today remind us of the importance of upholding our cherished traditions.
The succession process to the throne of Olubadan is now well established and free from contestation, and this is a source of pride for us all. I rejoice with the Olubadan, the Ibadan Council of Chiefs, and the entire people of Ibadanland.
It is my prayer that the reign of Oba Adewolu Ladoja will usher in lasting peace, unity, and greater progress for Ibadanland and for Oyo State as a whole.”
The coronation ceremony also drew the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III; a former Kano State Governor, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso; a former Osun State Governor, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola; a former Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi; and a former Cross River State Governor, Donald Duke who are all in attendance.
Earlier, the Afobaje of Ibadanland, Chief Waheed Popoola, performed the traditional rites by placing Akoko leaves on Oba Ladoja’s head at the Labosinde Compound, Oja’ba, before the monarch proceeded in a grand procession to Mapo Hall for the official ceremony.
The new Olubadan’s entourage included political allies such as Senator Sharafadeen Abiodun (Ibadan South) and former Oyo State governor candidate, Teslim Folarin.
Also in attendance were Senator Yunus Akintunde (Oyo Central), Senator Abdulfatai Buhari (Oyo North), and Olamijuwonlo Alao-Akala, who represents Ogbomoso North in the House of Representatives, alongside other Federal and state lawmakers.
In spite of vehicular and human restrictions on Mapo Hall, venue of the installation of Senator Rasidi Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadan, hundreds of vendors beat security to display their wares around the vicinity of the event.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that petty traders, as early as 6.30a.m., arrived at the venue to beat security agents to display their goods.
Some petty traders invested in printing pictures of the new Olubadan, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, on T-shirts, key holders, calendars, wrist bands, and large frames to make quick profits from the teeming crowd that wished to be identified with the celebration.
Also, food vendors, snacks, and soft drinks sellers who secured spots close to the venue were seen making brisk sales in the carnival-like atmosphere of Mapo Hall.
A food vendor, Mrs Idiat Adeyemo, said that she had been cooking continuously since early hours of the day due to demand for different kinds of food by people.
A soft drink vendor, Miss Grace Emmanuel, said that she increased the price of her drinks a little above the normal price because she sourced ice blocks to make the drinks cold for customers.
“I need to add the extra cost of an ice block to make a little profit, “she said
Another group of people who made quick money at the event were traditional drummers, who stood guard outside, singing praises of dignitaries entering the venue for some token.
NAN reports that Ladoja, who turned 81 on Thursday, emerged as Olubadan from the civil line of the Chieftaincy line.
Before his nomination to the throne, he was the Otun Olubadan and ascended to the Olubadan position after the demise of his predecessor, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, on July 7.
The Federal High Court in Abuja, on Friday, dismissed the no-case submission filed by the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra.
Justice James Omotosho, in a ruling on Friday, held that the Department of State Services has made out a prima facie case against Kanu.
He accordingly ordered Kanu to enter his defence, as the prosecution has being able to convince the court without reasonable doubt that he has case to answer in the alleged terrorism charge brought against him by the Federal Government.
Justice Omotosho held that the evidence presented by the Department of State Services through its five witnesses were such that there was the need for Kanu to provide some explanations in the charge brought against him.
Kanu had filed a no-case submission after the prosecution closed its case in June, insisting that he has no case to answer in the charge brought against him.
Meanwhile, the Court has given the Nigerian Medical Association eight days to constitute a team of medical experts to determine the health status of Kanu.
In a ruling, Justice Omotosho ordered the NMA President to submit the committee’s report within eight days for consideration on whether Kanu should be transferred to the National Hospital for treatment.
Justice Omotosho directed that the committee, among other tasks, should assess the Department of State Services hospital to confirm whether it has the capacity to meet Kanu’s health needs.
Justice Omotosho further ruled that the NMA committee would be at liberty to make use of any hospital in the country for its investigations. He specified that the panel should comprise between eight and ten NMA members, including a cardiologist and a neurologist. The Chief Medical Director of the National Hospital must also be part of the committee.
The decision followed conflicting medical reports presented by the DSS medical team and Kanu’s private consultants.
The DSS lead counsel, Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN), disclosed the NMA’s intervention while opposing an application by Kanu’s legal team for his transfer to the National Hospital for urgent treatment.
Awomolo explained that a team of medical experts had already visited Kanu in DSS custody to assess his health, adding that the DSS medical team, led by Dr Mohammed Nasir, maintained that his condition could be adequately managed within DSS facilities.
In contrast, Kanu’s private consultants, led by Professor Martin Aghaji, a retired professor of medicine from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, argued that his deteriorating health required urgent transfer to the National Hospital, and even suggested possible treatment abroad.
The DSS dismissed Aghaji’s report as exaggerated and suspicious, particularly for recommending foreign hospitals, and alleged that he had unilaterally altered Kanu’s medication without consulting DSS doctors who had been treating him for four years.
Awomolo further argued that transferring Kanu to the National Hospital would disrupt services and pose security risks, insisting that the federal government was committed to his safety and willing to allow him access to medical experts of his choice within DSS facilities.
Kanu’s lead counsel, Dr Onyechi Ikpeazu (SAN), however, maintained that the transfer request was based on Aghaji’s findings. He stressed that the DSS lacked the facilities to manage Kanu’s ailments and argued that it was in the interest of justice that Kanu remain alive to face the terrorism charges against him.
Ikpeazu added that his team would not oppose the NMA’s intervention, provided it was ordered by the court.
President Bola Tinubu on Friday congratulated the leader of the All Progressives Congress in Alimosho Local Government Area of Lagos State, Adebisi Yusuf, on his birthday.
The President conveyed his congratulations through a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
“I join your family, friends, and the people of Lagos State to celebrate you today and always. You have proven your mettle as a people’s leader, mobiliser of consciences, lawmaker, financial expert, humanitarian, and, more importantly, reliable political ally.
“As the leader, you have steadied the turf, rallying members and resources for our administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda. This agenda aims to spread prosperity and transform the lives of Nigerians at the critical stratum of society—the grassroots.
“Owing to your pedigree of excellence and dedicated stewardship, you served as a member of the Lagos State House of Assembly, representing Alimosho Constituency 1, for 12 years—from 2011 to 2023. You also served as Chairman of Ipaja/Ayobo Local Council Development Area,” Tinubu said.
The statement also added that in the Lagos State House of Assembly, Yusuf chaired several committees, including public accounts (local) and commerce, where your impact was immensely felt.
“Through the Prince Hope Turns to Reality Foundation, a non-profit organisation you founded, you have made a difference in the lives of many, providing healthcare and empowerment to vulnerable individuals and communities in Alimosho, Lagos.
“On this special day, I wish you many years of good health, wisdom, and strength as you continue to provide leadership and guidance in your community and beyond,” the statement read.
President Bola Tinubu on Friday departed Abuja for Ibadan, Oyo State, to attend the coronation of the new Olubadan, Rashidi Ladoja.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the presidential jet took off from the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.
In Ibadan, Tinubu will join other dignitaries for the official installation ceremony at the historic Mapo Hall.
His presence and other dignitaries underscore the national importance of the occasion, as Ibadan celebrates the continuity of its revered monarchical institution.
Ladoja, a former Oyo state governor and senator, was selected as the 44th Olubadan, following the passing of Oba Owolabi Olakulehin on July 7.
Excitement is already sweeping across Ibadan as the city witnesses Ladoja’s ascension to the revered throne.
Ladoja, 81, is a respected businessman and political figure who rose through the traditional Olubadan chieftaincy ranks to become Olubadan.
The Olubadan of Ibadanland is the paramount traditional ruler of Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State, and one of the largest cities in West Africa. The Olubadan throne holds deep cultural, historical, and political significance among the Yoruba people.
