A Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Chief Wole Olanipekun, on Tuesday called for a unified identity among traditional rulers in the Yoruba-speaking states of the South-West.
He made the call during a courtesy visit to the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, at the Olubadan Palace, Oke-Aremo, in Ibadan North Local Government Area of Oyo State.
Olanipekun urged the monarch to leverage his wealth of experience as a seasoned administrator and foremost traditional ruler to foster unity among traditional rulers in the region.
He said, “Ladoja is a leading figure among traditional rulers in Yorubaland. The history of the ancient town and the role it played in warding off the invasion of Fulani jihadists is well documented.
“It is noteworthy how Ibadan warlords fought gallantly to defend the territorial integrity of Yorubaland during the Kiriji War, Ijaiye War and Jalumi, among others.
“We therefore want you to bring your wealth of experience as a former governor, senator and entrepreneur to bear in this regard.
“With all these in mind, people are looking up to Ladoja as a foremost traditional ruler to provide leadership and help give traditional rulers a uniform identity.
“The monarch has seen it all as a governor and senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. His impeachment case and the Supreme Court ruling that invalidated the decision of the House of Assembly have become reference points.
“Lawyers frequently cite the case whenever such matters arise at both lower and appellate courts. Many governors have been protected from unconstitutional impeachment through the precedent set by the case instituted by Ladoja.
“As a traditional ruler who has weathered many storms, all eyes are on you. We must ensure that unnecessary cracks are not created among traditional rulers in Yorubaland so that external pressures can be effectively checked.”
In his response, Ladoja described Olanipekun as a foremost lawyer guided by the fear of God.
While acknowledging Olanipekun’s contributions to the legal profession, the paramount ruler stressed the need for the timely dispensation of justice.
“There is a need for speedy dispensation of cases in our courts. Litigants are becoming discouraged by delays currently being experienced in the administration of justice,” he said.
PUNCH Online reports that Ladoja ascended the throne following the death of the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who died on Monday, July 7, 2025, at the age of 90.
Ladoja was presented with the Staff of Office and Instrument of Office by Governor Seyi Makinde on Friday, September 26, 2025, at the historic Mapo Hall, Ibadan South-East Local Government Area of the state.
