Governor of Oyo State Seyi Makinde has revealed that the role of Oba Rashidi Ladoja, the Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, and a previous governor, made it possible for him to become governor.
Makinde said he could not write his political history without including Ladoja while paying tribute to the state capital of Ibadan on Wednesday. Makinde was speaking during Ladoja’s 80th birthday celebration at his private mansion on Ondo Street.
He clarified that he would not quickly forget his political trajectory, which keeps him obligated to the elderly man, regardless of the political differences they may have.
Even if Ladoja and he have different political philosophies, Makinde believes the former governor still has a lot to offer the state.
“My political trajectory cannot be complete without mentioning Baba’s name. Daddy was the one that midwifed the process that led to my emergence as governor in 2019. As I said, I don’t have anything against Daddy (Ladoja), and there is no way you will write my political history without his (Ladoja) name. My political history is incomplete without Daddy’s input.
“We may have some political differences. When I became governor in 2019, you were the one that midwifed the process. And I beg you that whenever I have offended you, I have begged you. We may have some political differences. This is not the only thing. And sincerely, we will re-align and there will be development.
“Today is a special day for me. Today is a special day for Ibadanland and the state because one of the leading lights is celebrating his 80th birthday.
“We thank God. A lot of people may not know this, but I feel that whenever I have the opportunity I will say it openly. You still have a lot of roles to play, So, we will continue to look forward to your leadership,” the governor stressed.
Meanwhile, Muslim, Christian and traditional worshippers, who graced the occasion, offered prayers, wishing him more healthy years in life.
They all described him as a very resilient, reliable, political and traditional leader, whose life has been so exemplary in Ibadanland, in the state and Nigeria in general.
Dignitaries include the Oyo South Senator, Sharafadeen Alli; Senator Abdulfatai Buhari of Oyo North; Isaac Jolapamo, a ship magnate and bosom friend of Ladoja; Nureni Akanbi, Arole Iba; the Chief Imam of Ibadanland, Sheikh Abdulganiy Agbotomokere, who led Islamic adherents; Ifalere Adegbola, and Arabia/Olu Isese of Ibadanland, who led the traditional worshippers; Rev Olatinwo Fatoki and Pastor Olusoji Adediji led the Christian worshippers, among many others.
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