The 82nd birthday celebration of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, Arusa I, ended on a cinematic note in Ibadan with the Royal Premiere of Arusa, a film produced by Biodun Eleni and executive produced by Fathia Ladoja.
The film was screened at the Emeritus Professor Theophilus Ogunlesi Hall, opposite the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, as part of activities marking the monarch’s birthday.
Earlier in the day, Christian, Islamic and traditional religious leaders, members of the royal family and well-wishers gathered at the Olubadan’s Bodija residence to offer prayers for his health, wisdom, longevity and continued peaceful reign.
Although Oba Ladoja was not physically present at the celebration, the monarch sent a message of appreciation to those who attended and others who sent goodwill messages in honour of his birthday.
He expressed gratitude for the prayers and support, describing them as a cherished part of the occasion, while urging the people of Ibadanland to continue to uphold peace, unity and mutual understanding.
The monarch’s wife, Olori Rashidat Olayinka Ladoja, received guests on his behalf at the Bodija residence.
Speaking during the celebration, Olori Ladoja reflected on the monarch’s 82 years and his years of public and community service, describing the occasion as an opportunity to appreciate his contributions to Ibadanland.
She thanked religious leaders, members of the family, friends and well-wishers who attended the celebration and joined in prayers for the Olubadan.
The prayer session reflected Ibadan’s multi-religious character, with representatives of Islam, Christianity and traditional religion separately offering prayers for the monarch.
Alhaji Muritala Adeniyi led the Islamic prayers, seeking protection, wisdom and good health for the Olubadan.
Pastor Olusoji Adedeji led the Christian prayers, asking for divine guidance and many more years of purposeful service for the monarch.
The Araba Awo of Ibadanland, Chief Ifalere Odegbola, also offered traditional prayers for Oba Ladoja and sought peace, stability and prosperity for Ibadanland.
Members of the monarch’s family and other guests used the occasion to reflect on his contributions to the traditional institution, cultural preservation, peace and unity in Ibadanland.
Guests at the Bodija residence were also presented with gifts as part of the birthday celebration.
Activities later shifted to the Emeritus Professor Theophilus Ogunlesi Hall for the Royal Premiere of Arusa, bringing the day’s celebration to a close with a blend of culture and entertainment.
Oba Ladoja turned 82 on September 25, a day before the first anniversary of his coronation as the Olubadan of Ibadanland.
