The governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress in Oyo State, Senator Sharafadeen Alli, on Friday felicitated the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, on his 82nd birthday and first anniversary on the throne.

Alli, in a congratulatory message by his campaign organisation’s Director of Media and Publicity, Bisi Oladele, in Ibadan, the state capital, described Ladoja as an outstanding statesman, administrator, political strategist and traditional ruler whose life had been marked by service to Ibadanland, Oyo State and Nigeria.

The PUNCH reports that Ladoja was crowned the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland at Mapo Hall on September 26, 2025, following the demise of the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Olakulehin Owolabi.

Alli, who is the current senator representing Oyo South Senatorial District in the National Assembly, said the monarch’s 82nd birthday and first anniversary on the Olubadan throne represented a significant milestone worthy of thanksgiving to Almighty Allah and celebration by the people of Ibadanland.

He said, “Ladoja’s journey from public service and political leadership to the pinnacle of the traditional institution reflects decades of experience, sacrifice, resilience and commitment to the development and unity of Ibadan.”

The APC guber candidate noted that the Olubadan’s decades-long progression through the traditional hierarchy before ascending the throne had endowed him with extensive experience and institutional knowledge.

Alli commended Ladoja for the dignity, wisdom and sense of responsibility with which he had carried the Olubadan crown.

He described the monarch as a repository of Ibadan’s history, culture, values and traditions.

He said, “Kabiyesi, your 82nd birthday and first anniversary on the throne are powerful reminders of a life of service, sacrifice, courage and uncommon dedication to humanity.

“Your Majesty, you have distinguished yourself as a leader whose contributions to Ibadanland and Oyo transcend political affiliations and generations.

“Your wealth of experience, wisdom and deep understanding of the aspirations of our people remain invaluable assets to our dear state.

“At 82, you have continued to demonstrate that true leadership is not about age, position or title, but about service, wisdom, character and the positive impact one makes on society,” the message read in part.”

The senator representing Oyo South also prayed for continued peace and prosperity in Ibadanland, Oyo State and Nigeria.

“On behalf of my family, political associates and the good people of Oyo, I warmly congratulate Your Imperial Majesty on this glorious occasion. May Almighty Allah preserve you, strengthen you and grant you many more years of fruitful and impactful service on the throne of your forefathers.

“May your reign continue to bring honour to Ibadanland, inspire generations and leave behind an enduring legacy of peace, unity and progress.

“Happy 82nd birthday and happy first coronation anniversary, Kabiyesi. Long live the Olubadan of Ibadanland. Long live Ibadanland. Long live Oyo,” he prayed.