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 Obi-Alexander David

A new short film, OLUBADAN44: A Short Film, has taken Nigeria by storm, capturing the historic coronation of Oba Rasheed Adewolu Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadan land.

The film, which premiered days after the grand ceremony at Mapo Hall on September 26, chronicles a pivotal moment in Ibadan’s history, blending tradition, resilience, and national unity.

The coronation, attended by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Oyo State Governor,  Seyi Makinde, and dignitaries like the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubarkar III and former governors, marked Oba Ladoja’s ascension after a 32-year journey through Ibadan’s chieftaincy ranks.

The film highlights the cultural significance of the event, showcasing the symbolic decoration with Akoko leaves at the  Labosinde Compound and the vibrant procession to Mapo Hall, where Governor Makinde presented the staff of office.

OLUBADAN44 portrays Oba Ladoja, a former Oyo State governor and senator, as a symbol of perseverance, with President Tinubu praising his “impeccable determination” during the ceremony.

The film also captures Ladoja’s bold appeal to Tinubu for the creation of Ibadan State by 2027, a moment that resonated with thousands in attendance and sparked nationwide discussions.

Featuring performances by Fuji stars like Saheed Osupa and Taye Currency, alongside a coronation lecture by Professor Toyin Falola, the film celebrates Ibadan’s rich heritage and its unique succession system.

 Governor Makinde, who cut short his vacation to attend, described the event as a “source of pride” for Oyo State, a sentiment echoed in the film’s narrative of unity and progress.

Available online, OLUBADAN44 has been hailed as a cultural milestone, with social media buzzing about its vivid portrayal of Yoruba tradition and its message of hope.

As Oba Ladoja’s reign begins, the film stands as a testament to a new era for Ibadan, Oyo State, and Nigeria.