Oba Rashidi Ladoja Returns to Ibadan as Coronation Rites Await Governor’s Approval
After weeks away from the city, Olubadan-designate Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja returned to Ibadan on Monday to a warm welcome from family members and supporters at the Ibadan-Lagos tollgate.
He then proceeded to his ancestral home in Isale-Osi, located in Ibadan South East Local Government Area, where a modest reception was held in honour of his anticipated ascension as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.
Oba Ladoja’s nomination followed the passing of the 43rd Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who died on July 7, 2025, just two days after celebrating his 90th birthday. On August 4, the Olubadan Advisory Council unanimously selected Ladoja as the next monarch, in line with Ibadan’s unique and structured succession system.
Ibadan’s traditional hierarchy operates a rotational model between two ruling lines. The Otun Olubadan (civil line) and the Balogun (military line).
Chiefs ascend through ranks over time, and when the throne becomes vacant, the most senior chief in the appropriate line is chosen.
As the current Otun Olubadan, Ladoja stood as the most senior figure in the civil line, making him the rightful successor.
His nomination now awaits formal approval from Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde. Once ratified, traditional rites and coronation ceremonies will commence, ushering in a new chapter in Ibadan’s royal history.
Oba Ladoja brings a blend of political and traditional experience to the throne. A shipping magnate and industrialist, he served as a senator during Nigeria’s aborted Third Republic and was elected Governor of Oyo State under the PDP from 2003 to 2007. His tenure was interrupted by an 11-month impeachment, later overturned by the courts.
If crowned, Ladoja would become the first former governor to ascend the Olubadan throne—a historic milestone that reflects both his enduring influence and the evolving nature of traditional leadership in Nigeria.
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