L-R: Chairman, Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Dr Zaccheus Adedeji; Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu; Oyo State governor, Seyi Makinde; President Bola Tinubu; Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, and Oyo State governor, Seyi Makinde, during the Coronation, Ceremony, of the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, in Ibadan, Oyo State on Friday, September 26, 2025.
BY JAMES AKINOLA
President Bola Tinubu on Friday electrified the crowd at Mapo Hall, declaring that Nigeria’s long stretch of economic hardship is finally over.
Speaking at the historic coronation of Oba Adewolu Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Tinubu assured Nigerians that the country’s economy has “turned a corner” and was now firmly on the path of growth and prosperity.
“Your suffering has been as painful to us as a painful surgery. But the economy has now returned to a moment of growth and prosperity. There is a bright light at the end of the tunnel,” the President said to thunderous applause.
‘Emi Lo’kan’ Returns
In a nostalgic moment, Tinubu recalled his famous 2023 campaign slogan, “Emi lo’kan” (It’s my turn), telling the Ibadan crowd:
“I once came to Oke Mapo to seek your support and to say ‘Emi lo’kan,’ and now we are there. Thank you very much.”
His remark drew cheers from thousands who gathered to witness the enthronement of the former Oyo State governor, making him the first ex-governor to ascend the revered Ibadan throne.
A Coronation of History and Power
The coronation was not just a cultural spectacle but a convergence of politics, tradition, and history. President Tinubu hailed the new Olubadan as “a renowned businessman, a statesman, and a monarch whose reign will bridge the gap between modern governance and ancient customs.”
Oba Ladoja, who clocked 81 just a day before his installation, ascended the throne after a 32-year journey through Ibadan’s traditional chieftaincy system, marking a rare blend of political experience and royal heritage.
The ceremony drew thousands of well-wishers, dignitaries, and power brokers to Ibadan, as the ancient city basked in cultural pride and national attention.
Message of Hope
Tinubu’s economic reassurance, delivered at a royal coronation, signaled his attempt to rally national optimism after months of hardship under tough reforms.
“Thank you for your perseverance, and thank you for your endurance. Today, I bring you good news: Nigeria’s economy is back on track,” he declared.
For Ibadan, the day marked more than a royal celebration — it was a fusion of heritage, politics, and hope, with a president using the throne of an old ally to deliver a powerful national message.
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