Rev. Fr. Paul ASAWALE     

In his curtesy visit to the New Olubadan of Ibadan Land, His Royal Highness, Oba Rasheed Ladoja at his residence, Oshuntokun Avenue, Bodija Ibadan on the 8th of September 2025, the Metropolitan Archbishop of Ibadan, Most Rev. Dr. Gabriel ‘Leke Abegunrin described the New Oba as a Symbol of humility.

In his discussion with the Archbishop and his entourage led by Chief Mrs. Mojisola Ladiipo, the new Olubadan recalled the passionate request of Archbishop Emeritus Alaba Job on the return of schools to Missions when he, Chief Ladoja was the Governor of Oyo State. He made it known that his administration then had perfected all arrangements on the return, but that some powerful individuals did not allow it to materialize.

The Archbishop told Newsmen that the reign of Chief Ladoja as the Governor of Oyo State was a unique and a progressive one. That this is why the Catholic Church in Ibadan, represented by him and his entourage have come to pay a curtesy call and to show their gratitude to the Oba and his Planning Committee for choosing the Catholic Church for his coronation thanksgiving, which comes up now, no longer at St. Mary’s Cathedral, Oke Paadi, but at The Church of Ascension, Bodija, Ibadan on the 28th of September, by 9am prompt.

The Archbishop prayed for the New Oba for a peaceful reign, for the guidance of the Holy Spirit and for a more prosperous Ibadan Land during his reign. He imparted his Episcopal blessing on the Oba and on everyone present.