By Adeyinka Adeniran
The Olubadan-Designate Oba Rasidi Ladoja has called on traditional rulers in Yorubaland to embrace peaceful coexistence in the interest of the entire Yoruba race.
He urged them to also ensure that unity, promoting and preservation of the Yoruba culture and traditions remains their collective watch word.
He gave the charge while playing host to the Elerinmo of Erinmo – Ijesa kingdom, Oba Michael Ajayi who paid him a congratulatory visit at his private residence, Ondo street, Bodija, Ibadan at the weekend.
Welcoming the visitor and his entourage, Oba Ladoja expressed gratitude to the monarch and the entire people of Erinmo Ijesa for the gesture and love.
Speaking on the import of the visit, he said the unity and promotion of peaceful togetherness is a collective responsibility of all Yoruba traditional rulers, and which just be pursued.
According to him, Yoruba has rich cultural values that the whole world cherish and respect, as such, nothing should be done to tanish them, which he described as great Yoruba cultural heritages.
Earlier in his remarks, the Elerinmo of Erinmo said the emergence of Oba Ladoja as the Olubadan is a testimony of divine providence, wisdom and the collective trust of the great people of Ibadanland, adding, “with great joy and heartfelt delight, I extend my warm congratulations on your ascension to the revered throne of Olubadan of Ibadanland.”
Oba Ajayi prayed that as the Olubadan-designate steps into the the exalted office, his reign will usher in greater peace, unity and development for Ibadanland and indeed for Yoruba land as whole.
According to the Elerinmo, the stool of Olubadan is of historical significance, praying further that Oba Ladoja reign be marked with wisdom, long life, prosperity and countless achievements that will further uplift the heritage and dignity of the Yoruba race in entirety.
