Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar on Tuesday, September 30, led a high-powered delegation of political associates to Ibadan to congratulate Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja Arusa I on his coronation as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.
The delegation included former PDP National Chairman, Senator Iyorchia Ayu, former Cross River State Governor, Mr Liyel Imoke, former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, former Minister of Police Affairs, Mallam Adamu Maina Waziri, and Mallam Kashim Imam.
Atiku said the visit was not only to celebrate with the new monarch but also to acknowledge their longstanding bond of service to the nation. He noted that Oba Ladoja warmly received the delegation, recalling his shared history with each member.
“I was elated that the Olubadan called every member of the delegation by their names, remembering our time together in the public service,” Atiku wrote on his official X handle.
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He described the ascension of the Olubadan, whom he referred to as a longstanding associate, as a proud moment and prayed for a reign marked by peace, prosperity, and justice in Ibadanland.
Atiku also explained his absence at the coronation ceremony, saying protocol logistics prevented his attendance, but he sought forgiveness from the monarch and Ibadan people.
“I regret my inability to be physically present for the historic coronation due to protocol logistics. Please overlook and forgive me. Mo dobale, Kabiyesi,” he added.
The former Vice President further expressed gratitude to the people of Ibadan for their warm welcome, noting the crowd that turned up at the city gate to receive him and his delegation.