Abubakar spoke in Ibadan, the Oyo state capital, on Tuesday
when he led a delegation to Ladoja’s palace.

The former vice-president expressed his regret for missing
the Olubadan’s historic coronation held last Friday at Mapo Hall, Ibadan, where
President Bola Tinubu and other dignitaries were present.

Abubakar, who was Nigeria’s vice-president when Ladoja
served as Oyo state governor, attributed his absence at the event to “protocol
logistics”.

“I regret my inability to be physically present for the
historic coronation due to protocol logistics. Please overlook and forgive me.
Mo dobale, Kabiyesi,” Atiku wrote on his X handle.

He praised the monarch’s memory of their shared political
history, describing Ladoja as “a longstanding associate”, and wished him a
long, prosperous reign.

“I was elated that the Olubadan called every member of the
delegation by their names, remembering our time together in the public
service,” Abubakar said.

“Indeed, His Royal Highness and all of us had shared decades
of time of service to our dear nation.

“I am proud that Kabiyesi, a longstanding associate, has
ascended the throne of his forebears.

“It is my prayer that you will enjoy a long reign in good
health and vitality that will usher in more growth, prosperity, and peaceful
Ibadanland.

“I trust the assurance of Oba Ladoja to serve justice to his
people across all religious or political divides. I profoundly thank Ibadan
people who turned up in their numbers to receive me and my delegation at the
city gate.”

Welcoming his guests, the monarch distanced himself from
partisan politics, noting that his new role as Olubadan makes him “for
everybody”.

“I’m not one of you again. I am the Olubadan of Ibadanland.
So, I am for everybody now. I am not a politician anymore. Welcome to my
house,” Ladoja said.

He recalled his political journey through the Social
Democratic Party (SDP), the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and the Accord
Party, which he helped establish.

“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.”

The Olubadan pledged to serve the people of Ibadan with
justice and fairness.

Atiku’s delegation included Nasir el-Rufai, former governor
of Kaduna; Iyorchia Ayu, former PDP national chairman; Liyel Imoke, former
governor of Cross River; and Adamu Maina Waziri, former minister of police
affairs.