Obasanjo Breaks Silence On Power Tussle: ‘Throne And Politics Are Not Equals

Former Nigerian President, Olusegun Obasanjo, has urged the Olubadan-designate, Oba Abdul-Rasheed Ladoja, to clearly distinguish between traditional authority and political power.

In a statement signed by his Special Assistant on Media, Kehinde Akinyemi, and released to journalists on Wednesday, Obasanjo congratulated the incoming monarch ahead of his official coronation.

The ex-president noted that ascending the throne of Ibadanland comes with great responsibility, stressing that the role demands humility, patience, tolerance, and divine wisdom.

He further advised Oba Ladoja to remain open to counsel from diverse quarters in order to succeed.

The statement partly reads:

“I take this opportunity to congratulate you, Ade a pe lori, bata a pe lese. It is an exalted and responsible position to be the traditional ruler of all Ibadan people. It requires humility, patience, divine wisdom, tolerance and advice from wide and varied quarters to succeed. Traditional rulership does not compete or conflict with political rulership. I wish you all the best and the grace, guidance and direction of Almighty God.”

Oba Abdul-Rasheed Ladoja is set to be crowned the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland on Friday, September 26, 2025.

Meanwhile, in a separate development, political activist Usman Bugaje challenged Obasanjo’s denial of seeking a third term in office. Bugaje insisted the former president “did everything within his power” to extend his tenure, despite Obasanjo’s recent claim at a Goodluck Jonathan Foundation dialogue in Ghana that he never pursued a third term.