Ibadan, the historic city of warriors and statesmen, came alive today in a spectacle befitting royalty and political nobility. The ancient city, still basking in the joy of the enthronement of Oba Rashid Adewolu Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, witnessed yet another defining moment – the triumphant entry of His Excellency, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar (HEAA), Waziri Adamawa and political colossus of Nigeria.
on
Accompanied by an entourage of eminent statesmen amongst whom were HE Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, Dr. Iyorchia Ayu, HE Liyel Imoke, Alhaji Kashim Imam, and the irrepressible Rainbow Alliance chieftain, Professor Ola Olateju. The visit was both a political statement and a mark of honour to the revered monarch.
At the Ibadan Toll Gate, the air was charged with energy as thousands thronged the highway, waving flags, singing, and chanting in solidarity. The state leaders and members of the Rainbow Alliance, alongside the ADC family led by their state chairman, Alhaji Olona, poured out in their numbers, joined by the young, the elderly, men and women – all to herald the arrival of a man who has become a symbol of resilience and hope in Nigerian politics. Security officers, with cheerful composure, ensured order amidst the frenzy, while the spectacle of unity drew admiration from onlookers.
As the convoy snaked its way through the bustling city into the palace grounds, the crowd swelled into tens of thousands. Songs of praise and political slogans filled the air, as Ibadan’s sons and daughters sought to catch a glimpse of the man they fondly call the scion of Nigerian politics. The excitement was almost uncontainable when the entourage proceeded to the private residence of the Olubadan, where another sea of humanity had already gathered, eager to be part of history.
The security operatives had their work cut out – managing the surging crowds who were determined not to miss the sight of this momentous occasion. But the atmosphere remained festive, peaceful, and symbolic of Ibadan’s deep-rooted culture of honouring men of stature.
Special appreciation went to the leadership of ADC in Oyo State led by Alhaji Olona and the Rainbow Alliance family, ably steered by Hon. Bolaji Omotola, for the seamless coordination and the electrifying welcome. Their efforts turned the day into one of the most memorable receptions in recent Ibadan history.
As dusk approached, the Waziri Adamawa’s Ibadan visit drew to a dignified close. He was escorted to Lagos Airport by none other than Professor Ola Olateju, who stood in loyal solidarity to see him off as he returned to Abuja.
Today, Ibadan did not just celebrate Olubadan. It also reaffirmed the indelible bond between culture, politics, and leadership, proving once again that Alhaji Atiku Abubakar remains a central figure in the unfolding narrative of Nigeria’s destiny.
