The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba (Dr.) Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja, has called on traditional rulers across Yorubaland and Nigeria to promote unity, love and mutual understanding.
He made the call on Saturday, November 7, 2026, during the 2026 Agidanyin Founder's Day Festival held at Erinmo-Ijesa, Osun State. The Olubadan attended the event as the Grand Royal Father of the Day and Special Guest of Honour.
Oba Ladoja urged traditional rulers to see themselves as custodians of Yoruba culture and tradition. He said they must work together to protect and promote the people's cultural values so that they do not go into extinction.
The former Oyo State Governor, former Senator and 44th Olubadan also praised the Elerinmo of Erinmo-Ijesa, Oba (Dr.) Michael Odunayo Ajayi, Arowotawaya II, for the achievements recorded during his short reign.
He urged other traditional rulers to learn from the Elerinmo and follow his example by bringing development to their communities.
Earlier, in his welcome address, Oba Ajayi said this year's Agidanyin Festival featured several activities that showed the rich cultural heritage of Erinmo-Ijesa.
The activities included the traditional meat feast, annual prayers led by the Araba and Baba Elebubon, royal prayers, Arowotawaya Recognition Awards, traditional homage and colourful cultural displays.
Speaking on the history of Erinmo-Ijesa, the monarch said the town's history was linked to Ooni Obalufon Alayemore, who was traditionally associated with its founding around 110 AD.
He explained that Agidanyin was remembered as the warrior son of Obalufon Alayemore and the first king of Erinmo. He described the festival as an important part of the town's history and cultural identity.
According to him, the Agidanyin Festival has great potential to promote tourism, create jobs, support economic growth and attract international attention to Erinmo-Ijesa.
The Elerinmo therefore appealed to the Federal Government and the Osun State Government to support efforts to secure UNESCO cultural heritage recognition for the festival.
He also called for constitutional recognition and clearly defined responsibilities for traditional rulers in Nigeria.
"My vision is to see an Erinmo where our cultural heritage is preserved, our youths are empowered, our children have access to quality education, our people enjoy economic opportunities and our traditional values continue to command respect," the monarch said.
Oba Ajayi expressed gratitude to Oba Ladoja for honouring the festival with his presence. He also appreciated the Owa Obokun, who served as the Grand Royal Host, and other royal fathers and guests.
Other dignitaries at the celebration included Hon. Barrister Nathaniel Agunbiade, who welcomed the guests; the Elerin of Erin-Osun; the Olojudo of Ido-Oko; the Olufon of Ifon-Osun; other traditional rulers, community leaders, captains of industry and sons and daughters of Erinmo-Ijesa.
The 2026 Agidanyin Founder's Day Festival provided another opportunity to celebrate Erinmo-Ijesa's history, honour its cultural heritage and promote unity among traditional institutions in Yorubaland.
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