Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has explained his non-appearance at the coronation of the former Governor of Oyo State, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland. He recently blamed his absence on protocol arrangements, and Nigerians have been reacting.
Speaking during an interview alongside prominent members of the African Democratic Congress while paying homage to the new Olubadan at his private residence in Ibadan, the state capital, Atiku revealed that his failure to show up was not deliberate.
According to him, it was not intentional not to honour Ladoja with his presence, especially because the respected monarch has played a crucial role in nation-building over the years.
He congratulated the 44th Olubadan on a successful coronation, stressing that he regrets not being available to witness it.
“We are here to say congratulations to the new Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Ladoja. We regretted that we didn’t attend the coronation. It was not intentional. Protocol arrangements did not allow us to come during the coronation, not that we don’t want to come.
We know your roles and relationship with some of us. We are here to congratulate you. Kindly accept our apologies for not making it to the coronation. We regret not attending the programme,” he said.
Responding, Oba Ladoja declared that he is no longer a politician, noting that he won’t forget the great times he had with Atiku and other political figures in Nigeria.
He concluded by telling his guests that he quit politics to promote justice and fairness throughout his reign as Olubadan.
“I’m not one of you again. I am the Olubadan of Ibadanland. So, I am for everybody now. I am no more one of you. I am not a politician anymore. Welcome to my house.
Now that I am the Olubadan, I am no more interested in any other than the Olubadan. You are welcome to my house.
We started from the Social Democratic Party, we were in exile together, we were in the Peoples Democratic Party together. When I wanted to create an identity, I went to the Accord Party, which became a household name here. I know you politicians have a way of coming back.
All the religious leaders said that the only thing the leaders can do is to promote justice and fairness. I will serve my people. Ibadan people, the state, Africa and the world at large. I will depend on your support and advice,” he added.
