The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has renewed calls for clearly defined constitutional roles for traditional rulers in Nigeria, saying that formal recognition would strengthen governance and deepen collaboration between monarchs and elected authorities.
Oba Ladoja appealed yesterday, during a courtesy visit to Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, at Lagos House in Marina, where he also praised the Lagos State Government for what he described as giant strides in infrastructure development and urban management.
The monarch, who thanked Sanwo-Olu and the people of Lagos State for their support during his coronation last year, noted that the state holds deep personal and traditional significance for him.
He commended the state government’s efforts in traffic management and transportation, saying that sustained investment in infrastructure had helped to reduce gridlock across the metropolis.
The Olubadan specifically lauded the blue and red rail lines, as well as the state’s expanding water transportation system, which he said had significantly cut travel time in many parts of the state.
Oba Ladoja also used the occasion to highlight what he described as a longstanding gap in Nigeria’s governance framework, as well as the absence of constitutionally defined roles for traditional rulers.
He said formal recognition would enhance governance outcomes and foster closer, more structured engagement between traditional institutions and government at all levels.
The monarch clarified that there was no dispute between the traditional institution and the Oyo State Government, but maintained that constitutional backing would further strengthen mutual respect and cooperation.
In his response, Sanwo-Olu described Ibadan as a rallying point of the Yoruba race and commended Oba Ladoja for his leadership role in promoting peace and unity in Oyo State and beyond.
Sanwo-Olu thanked the monarch for the visit and praised his service to the nation, describing his leadership as visionary and impactful.
He expressed the confidence that Oba Ladoja’s reign would usher in development and transformation for Ibadanland and the country at large.
He said: “We thank God for your (Oba Ladoja) life. We thank Almighty God for your leadership in our country and for the several years that you have served this country. And now, you have graciously accepted to serve the people of Ibadan.
“Our prayer is that your tenure will not only be long but will bring transformational development to the entire Ibadanland, your state and Nigeria in general. God will spare you. God will give you renewed energy, strength and wisdom to rule and rule well.
“On behalf of the government and people of Lagos State, we thank you for coming to acknowledge and appreciate us. Lagos will continue to stand with you and your kingdom.”