Former Oyo State governor, Rashidi Ladoja, has officially been crowned the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, marking a historic moment for the ancient city.
Ladoja, a prominent political figure and respected community leader, completed the final traditional rites at the Ose Meji Temple in the Ibadan South-East Local Government Area on Thursday, receiving the crown that formally installed him as monarch. Earlier in the day, he was handed the Akoko leaf at the Labosinde Compound, Oja’ba, a key ritual that symbolises his acceptance by the royal lineage.
The new Olubadan is expected to be presented with the staff of office later today at the iconic Mapo Hall, where Governor Seyi Makinde will formally recognize him as the paramount ruler of Ibadanland.
His ascension follows the passing of the 43rd Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who died on July 7, 2025. Ladoja’s emergence is seen as the continuation of Ibadan’s revered succession system, which is known across Nigeria for its orderly and transparent process that moves through two parallel lines of chiefs, the Otun and Balogun lines, until one becomes Olubadan.
The coronation attracted hundreds of guests and residents who turned out in colourful Yoruba attire to witness the historic occasion. Traditional music, dancing, and prayers filled the air, reflecting the pride of Ibadan’s people in welcoming a new monarch. The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Ọlaoye, former Ogun State governor Ibikunle Amosun, and the Chief Imam of Ibadan were among the prominent personalities present.
Read also: The build-up to the coronation
Security was a major priority, with heavy deployment of personnel from the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigerian Army, and other security agencies around the venue to ensure orderliness and a peaceful ceremony.
Ladoja’s journey to the throne has been closely watched for years, not only because of his political prominence but also because of his past involvement in debates over chieftaincy reforms in Ibadan. The former governor had been a key player when the previous Oyo State administration sought to review the Olubadan succession system in 2017, a move that initially generated controversy. His coronation is therefore being interpreted by many observers as the final resolution of those disputes and a unifying moment for the city.
During his tenure as governor from 2003 to 2007, Ladoja was credited with several development projects that impacted Ibadan and Oyo State as a whole. Supporters say his experience in politics and governance will now help strengthen the traditional stool, allowing him to play a more influential role in promoting peace and development in Ibadanland.
Residents have expressed optimism that his reign will bring further progress and harmony to the city. Many see Ladoja as a bridge between the old and the new, someone capable of upholding Ibadan’s cultural heritage while advocating for its modern growth.
The Olubadan stool is widely regarded as one of the most prestigious in Nigeria’s traditional hierarchy, not just because of its history but because of its orderly succession structure which ensures that virtually every high chief, if spared by death, will eventually ascend the throne.
As Ibadan celebrates the installation of its 44th Olubadan, expectations are high for a reign that blends wisdom, diplomacy, and development-minded leadership. For many indigenes, this coronation is not just about tradition, it is about the city’s future.
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