Ladoja’s Crown: A Story of Betrayal, Loyalty and Destiny -

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By Doyin Odekunle

They tried to impeach him. They tried to silence him. Yesterday, they crowned him king. Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, Arusa I, the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, embodies a story of resilience, betrayal, loyalty and destiny.

Oba Ladoja has a story that carries lessons for us all.

Back in 2006, as governor of Oyo State, he stood in the crosshairs of betràyal and injûstice. He faced impeachment not because he lacked power, but because he refused to bend to selfish hands.

Political enèmies aligned against him, the president at the time, his deputy governor, and local power brokers, convinced they could coerce him, silence him, and strip him of his dignity. They mobilised everything they had, and he was unjustly impeached. His l!fe was even thrætened. He fled.

He ran to Lagos, to Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Asiwaju housed him, supported him, and helped him assemble the legal team that fought all the way to the Supreme Court until his mandate was restored. From that moment till today, their bond has remained.

Fast forward to yesterday: the same man who could not be bought or intimidated, the same man who defended principle in the heat of betrayal, is now seated on the throne as King of Ibadan. Olubadan of Ibadan land. Kabiesi ooo.

And the same friend who stood with him then is now the President of Nigeria. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Present at his coronation.

You could see the connection between them, it is not politics. It is brotherhood. Both men have reached their lifelong ambitions: A king and a president.

However, what of those who orchestrated the chaos? Tell me, what happened to those who plotted his downfall? Where are they today?

Many faces buried in shame. Legacies forgotten.

Life is simple. Some names are written in sand and washed away. Others are carved into stone and live forever. Time and posterity always reward us according to the seeds we plant.

So I ask you: how are you spending your “now” for your future? What are your choices creating, not just for prestige, but for integrity, character, and legacy?

I am happy with this coronation. Proud of Ibadan’s tradition, where kings are not chosen for birthright alone, but through seniority, service, and respect. Proud of a system that allows any true son to rise. Proud that culture still matters.

Long live Arusa I. May your reign usher in peace, wisdom, and justice.

Doyin Odekunle writes from Ibadan, Oyo State