Olubadan Coronation: Oyo State Announces Major Road Closures Ahead of Historic Event

In preparation for the coronation of former Oyo State Governor, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, the Oyo State Government has announced the closure of key roads leading to the ancient Mapo Hall. The closures begin from 7:00 am on Friday, September 26, 2025, the day scheduled for the coronation ceremony.

The affected routes include Beere Junction inward Mapo Hall, Born Photo Junction inward Oja’ba, Idi-Arere Junction inward Oja’ba, and Itamerin Junction inward Mapo Hall. These measures aim to manage traffic flow and enhance security as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is expected to attend the event, a notable highlight of the celebration.

To accommodate visitors, the committee has designated three official parking areas: the Ibadan North Local Government Area’s car park in front of the Immigration Office, Agodi; the football field beside Yemetu Police Station; and Liberty Stadium, Oke Ado. Shuttle buses will ferry invited guests holding valid cards from these parks to the venue.

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Vendors providing food and drinks are required to arrive between 6 am and 6:45 am on the coronation day. Convoys for President Tinubu and Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State will have unrestricted access to the roads leading to Mapo Hall.

The coronation event marks a significant cultural milestone, commencing with interdenominational prayers held at Olubadan Palace, Oke-Aremo, on September 22. Oba Ladoja, who succeeds the late 43rd Olubadan Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, will be formally crowned on the day following his 81st birthday. The celebrations reflect the rich cultural heritage and spiritual depth of Ibadanland, involving a series of events running till October 4.

This coronation attracts dignitaries and prominent leaders nationally, including President Tinubu, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and prominent Yoruba monarchs, underscoring its significance as a reaffirmation of Yoruba tradition and Nigerian cultural pride.