Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar on Monday led a high-profile delegation of friends and political associates to Ibadan on a congratulatory visit to Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, Arusa I, 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; Mallam Adamu Maina Waziri, a one-time Minister of Police Affairs; and Mallam Kashim Imam.
Atiku expressed delight that Oba Ladoja warmly welcomed them and called each member of the delegation by name, recalling their shared years in public service. He described the monarch as a longstanding associate who had served the nation with distinction over the decades.
“I am proud that Kabiyesi, a longstanding associate, has ascended the throne of his forebears,” Atiku said.
The former Vice President, however, regretted his inability to physically attend the historic coronation of the Olubadan due to protocol logistics. He tendered his apologies, saying: “Please overlook and forgive me. Mo dobale, Kabiyesi.”
He prayed for the monarch to enjoy a long reign in good health and vitality, one that would bring growth, prosperity, and peace to Ibadanland. Atiku also expressed confidence in Oba Ladoja’s assurance to dispense justice fairly to his people across religious and political divides.
The former Vice President further appreciated the people of Ibadan, who trooped out in large numbers to welcome him and his delegation at the city gate.
