Personality in Focus
APC Jittery, Does Not Want a ‘Strong Competition’ – Dele Momodu
A chieftain of the opposition coalition African Democratic Congress (ADC) and Chairman, Ovation Media Group, Chief Dele Momodu, has accused the ruling party of stifling the opposition, claiming the All Progressives Congress (APC) is jittery ahead of the 2027 general election.
Momodu, who has been vocal in calling out the government of the day as a result of its draconian policies, spoke on Friday, accusing the ruling APC of sowing seeds of discord in opposition parties.
“It’s obvious that the ruling party is jittery. The ruling party does not want any strong competition in 2027 in particular,” Momodu said on the breakfast show.
“They are not too bothered by the governors and the rest of them. But they want a sole candidate, if possible.
“All political parties would rise up and endorse one man, and that is the President and Commander-in-Chief.”
His comment came about a day after the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) recognised the ADC national working committee led by a former Senate President, David Mark and ex-Osun governor, Rauf Aregbesola as secretary.
The move has expectedly continued to generate debates among politicians with some members of the ADC threatening to go to court over the matter.
However, Momodu is not surprised by some persons who have faulted the move, notably a former presidential candidate of the ADC, Dumebi Kachikwu.
“So I was not surprised yesterday when the news broke again that these guys are on their way to court. We all know what is going on,” he said.
“There’s nothing wrong with anybody going to court if you’re aggrieved. Well, fortunately, they should have known that the conveners of ADC worked extremely hard behind the scenes to arrive at where we are now.
“They took their time. They knew the government agents would attempt to thwart their efforts, like they have done in Labour, like they are doing in PDP, and they’re doing in NNPP — creating factions everywhere.”
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Personality in Focus
Aare EmmanuelKing Celebrates Oba Ladoja on Coronation As 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland
The Aare Apesinola of Ibadanland and Chairman/CEO of Adron Group, Sir Aare Adetola EmmanuelKing, KOF, has felicitated with His Imperial Majesty, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, FNSE, on the historic occasion of his coronation as the 44th custodian of the revered throne of Ibadanland.
In his congratulatory message, Aare Adetola EmmanuelKing described the coronation as “a sacred fulfillment of divine destiny and a powerful confirmation of the timeless heritage of Ibadanland.” He noted that the Olubadan stool is a living symbol of authority and the embodiment of the Ibadan people’s indomitable spirit, collective wisdom, and resilience through the centuries.
“This enthronement is evidence of Your Imperial Majesty’s decades of service, sterling integrity, and selfless leadership. Today, Ibadan has been blessed with a king, a father to all, a custodian of tradition, and a paragon of truth, justice, and peace. Your emergence at this pivotal time assures us that Ibadan’s future is anchored on wisdom, prosperity, and unity,” he declared.
He further emphasized that the new reign marks a new dawn of hope and progress, not only for Ibadanland but also for Yorubaland and Nigeria as a whole. He pledged his loyalty and support to His Imperial Majesty, expressing confidence that under his guidance, Ibadan will continue to flourish as a cultural, political, and economic force.
He prayed for divine strength, sound health, and a long, peaceful reign for the monarch. He also urged all sons and daughters of Ibadanland to rally behind their king in unity of purpose.
“Kabiyesi o! Long may you reign in peace, honor, and greatness. May your throne continue to be a fountain of wisdom and a pillar of unity for generations to come,” he concluded.
Ladoja received the crown at the Ose Meji Temple in the Ibadan South-East Local Government Area of the state.
He had earlier received the traditional Akoko leaf at the Labosinde Compound, Oja’ba, Ibadan.
He is also expected to be formally presented with the staff of office by Governor Seyi Makinde at the Mapo Hall.
Ladoja became Olubadan-designate following the passing of the 43rd Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who died on July 7, 2025.
The colourful installation ceremony attracted hundreds of guests and residents of Ibadan dressed in vibrant attire.
Present at the ceremony are Alaafin Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade; Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Ọlaoye; former Ogun State governor Ibikunle Amosun; and the Chief Imam of Ibadan.
The Olubadan stool is highly respected for its distinct succession system.
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The Aare Apesinola of Ibadanland, Sir Aare Adetola EmmanuelKing KOF, has joined the sons and daughters of Ibadanland, Yorubaland, and well-wishers across Nigeria in celebrating His Imperial Majesty, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, FNSE, on the auspicious occasion of his 81st Birthday Anniversary.
In his glowing tribute, Aare EmmanuelKing described the monarch’s life as “a rare blend of divine grace, uncommon wisdom, and unflinching devotion to humanity.” He extolled the Olubadan as a leader whose humility, integrity, and fatherly compassion have defined his personal journey and endeared him to generations.
“Your 81st year is a crown of honor upon a life richly invested in service, truth, and compassion. It is the celebration of decades spent building bridges of peace, fostering unity, and safeguarding the heritage of Ibadanland. Truly, you stand as a towering symbol of Yoruba culture and an enduring inspiration to all who cherish noble values,” he said.
He further noted the divine significance of this milestone, stressing that celebrating the monarch’s 81st birthday within the period of his coronation is a historic convergence of grace and glory. “This rare alignment speaks to God’s favor upon your reign, a powerful confirmation that your life, age, and throne are woven together in destiny for the peace, unity, and prosperity of Ibadanland,” he said.
Aare Adetola Emmanuelking also emphasized that the monarch’s attainment of this octogenarian milestone is both a personal triumph and a collective blessing, reaffirming God’s abiding favor upon the throne and upon the land.
“As you mark this glorious 81st birthday, I pray that the Almighty continues to renew Your Imperial Majesty’s strength like the eagle, fill your reign with joy in abundance, and grant you the grace of long, peaceful years. May Ibadanland and the entire Yorubaland continue to flourish under your wise counsel and royal guidance,” he prayed.
He extended warm felicitations to the monarch, reaffirming his loyalty and prayers for greater glory in the years ahead.
“Happy 81st Birthday, Kabiyesi! May your days be long, peaceful, and eternally blessed. Long live the Olubadan of Ibadanland!”
