In a significant move to bolster regional cohesion, a foremost legal icon has made a passionate appeal for unity among traditional rulers in South-West Nigeria. Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Wole Olanipekun, paid a courtesy visit to the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, on Tuesday, 16 December 2025, where he emphasised the critical need for a unified identity among Yoruba monarchs.
A Call for a Common Front
During the meeting at the Oke-Aremo Palace in Ibadan, Olanipekun stated that a unity of purpose is indispensable for the cultural strength, stability, and overall development of the South-West region. He argued that the influence and relevance of traditional institutions in Yorubaland would be greatly amplified if the royal fathers could speak with one voice.
The legal luminary warned that internal divisions only serve to weaken their collective authority and diminish their role in contemporary society. He stressed that presenting a common front is no longer a mere option but a necessity for preserving the heritage and advancing the interests of the Yoruba people.
Olubadan's Strategic Role in Unification
Olanipekun specifically urged Oba Ladoja to leverage his vast experience in public service and traditional leadership to foster greater cohesion among his fellow monarchs. He highlighted the Olubadan's unique position, stemming from both the historical weight of Ibadan and his personal trajectory as a former governor, senator, and accomplished administrator.
The SAN reminded the gathering of Ibadan's central role in defending Yorubaland during historic conflicts like the Kiriji, Ijaiye, and Jalumi wars. According to him, this history places a moral responsibility on the Olubadan to champion the cause of unity among traditional rulers across the region today.
Olanipekun also took a moment to reference Oba Ladoja's landmark legal victory after his impeachment as governor of Oyo State. He described the Supreme Court judgment that overturned the impeachment as a watershed moment for Nigeria's constitutional development.
Olubadan's Response and Justice System Concerns
In his response, Oba Rashidi Ladoja commended Wole Olanipekun, describing him as a foremost legal mind guided by the fear of God and a commitment to justice. The monarch praised the SAN's significant contributions to the growth and integrity of Nigeria's legal profession.
Shifting focus to the judiciary, the Olubadan expressed deep concern over the slow pace of justice dispensation in the country. He lamented that prolonged court processes continue to discourage litigants and erode public confidence in the judicial system.
To address this, Oba Ladoja proposed the elevation of more experienced legal practitioners from the Bar to the Bench. He believes that such a move would enhance the quality of judicial decisions and, in turn, strengthen public trust in the entire justice system.
This high-level visit underscores the ongoing dialogue between Nigeria's legal aristocracy and traditional institutions, focusing on collaborative strategies for regional stability and national progress.
