Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has explained his absence at the coronation of Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, attributing it to protocol arrangements.

Atiku, accompanied by former Senate President Iyorcha Ayu, ex-Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, former Cross River State Governor Liyel Imoke, and other members of the African Democratic Congress, stated this while paying homage to the new Olubadan at his private residence in Ibadan on Tuesday.

Governor Seyi Makinde had presented the staff and instrument of office to Oba Ladoja on Friday, following the passing of the 43rd Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who died on July 7, 2025, at the age of 90.

“We are here to say congratulations to the new Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Ladoja. We regretted that we didn’t attend the coronation. It was not intentional. Protocol arrangements did not allow us to come during the coronation, not that we didn’t want to come,” Atiku said, acknowledging Ladoja’s pivotal role in Nigeria’s political landscape.

In his response, Oba Ladoja declared that he had retired from politics, stressing that as the Olubadan, he now belongs to everyone.

“I’m not one of you again. I am the Olubadan of Ibadanland. So, I am for everybody now. I am not a politician anymore,” the monarch said, recalling his shared political journey with Atiku and others across the Social Democratic Party, Peoples Democratic Party, and Accord Party.

He pledged to rule with justice and fairness, stating, “I will serve my people,  Ibadan people, the state, Africa, and the world at large. I will depend on your support and advice.”