The Olubadan of Ibadanland-designate, Oba Rasheed Adewolu Ladoja, has formally declared his support for the re-election bid of Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, ahead of the 2026 governorship election.
The endorsement was disclosed in a statement signed by Governor Adeleke’s spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, on Tuesday.
Oba Ladoja, a former governor of Oyo State and ex-senator, gave his blessing while receiving Governor Adeleke at his Ibadan residence during a congratulatory visit. The visit came in anticipation of his official coronation as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, scheduled for September 26, 2025.
Drawing parallels between their political careers, Oba Ladoja noted that both he and Adeleke had served as Senators and Governors. He also highlighted Adeleke’s position as the Asiwaju of Edeland, describing him as a leader whose achievements should extend beyond his first term.
“Every day we hear of your good works in Osun State, and we are proud of the progress you are bringing to your people. Your developmental strides should continue beyond 2026 because no one can stop the good work you are doing. I will personally attend your second-term swearing-in as Olubadan of Ibadan, because one good term deserves another,” the monarch said.
Commending Adeleke further, the Olubadan-designate remarked:
“Your performance as Governor elates me. Osun is a difficult state to govern but you have changed the narrative. You are doing many wonderful things, and I can see Osun people are happy with you. Keep it up. My prayer for you is that you will lead Osun to new and greater heights. You will overcome all obstacles on your path of governance.”
He also paid tribute to the Adeleke family, acknowledging their longstanding legacy of public service.
Governor Adeleke, in his remarks, congratulated Oba Ladoja on his ascension to the throne, describing it as historic and well-deserved. He pledged to celebrate the monarch’s coronation in a grand style, adding:
“Kabiyesi, I deeply appreciate your guidance and wise counsel. Your leadership legacy continues to inspire me in Osun State. I pray for long life, filled with peace, joy, happiness, and divine blessings on the throne of your forefathers.”
Adeleke was accompanied on the visit by the Secretary to the State Government, Hon. Teslim Igbalaye, Chief of Staff, Alhaji Kazeem Akinleye, Yeyelua Modupeola Sanni-Adeleke, and several Commissioners including Otunba Tola Faseru, Hon. Olatunji Ayofe, and Hon. Biyi Odunlade.
