Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State, is filled with excitement and expectation as the people prepare for the installation of Oba Rashidi Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland on Friday.
The week-long programme for the installation of the Olubadan of Ibadan will come to a climax on Friday, with Governor Seyi Makinde expected to present the Staff of Office to Oba Ladoja at the historic Mapo hall in Ibadan.
The city is abuzz with activity, as major roads are adorned with billboards featuring Ladoja’s photographs and congratulatory messages from corporate organizations, groups, and individuals.
The atmosphere is electric, with sirens of vehicles in convoy conveying guests to their hotels on major roads in Ibadan ahead of tomorrow’s ceremony.
Security measures are in place, with personnel of the police and other security agencies strategically located across the metropolis to ensure law and order.
The State Road Traffic Management Authority has also deployed officers to manage traffic flow, and some roads adjoining the Mapo hall will be closed to motorists on Friday to ease traffic flow for guests.
The installation ceremony promises to be a grand affair, with President Bola Tinubu and other prominent dignitaries, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, expected to attend.
The Organising Committee has announced that markets in the metropolis will be closed on Friday during the event.
As the city prepares for the big day, the reopening of the Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport in Ibadan, which has been undergoing upgrade, is a key part of preparations for the Friday event.
Oba Ladoja, a businessman, former senator, and governor of Oyo State, rose through the Olubadan Chieftaincy hierarchy to become Olubadan, following the demise of Oba Owolabi Olakulehin on July 7.
