Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, witnessed history on Friday as a former Governor of the state, High Chief Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, was officially crowned the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.
The coronation rites began at the Labosinde Compound, Oja’ba, where the new monarch was formally presented with the symbolic Akoko leaf, a critical step in the traditional ascension process. He was later taken to the Ose Meji Temple in Ibadan South-East Local Government Area, where the official crowning was performed by designated custodians of Ibadan’s age-old tradition.
Ladoja’s elevation to the revered throne follows the demise of the 43rd Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who passed away on Monday, July 7, 2025, after a brief illness. His transition paved the way for Ladoja, who had been next in line as the Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, to assume the centuries-old stool.
Governor Seyi Makinde, who had earlier cut short his annual vacation in order to personally participate in the landmark occasion, is expected to officially present the new Olubadan with the staff and instrument of office at a grand civic ceremony scheduled to hold at the iconic Mapo Hall, the traditional venue for Ibadan coronations.
The event marks a significant moment not just for Ibadan, regarded as the largest city in West Africa, but also for Oyo State as a whole, given Ladoja’s political prominence and long-standing influence in the state.
Born on September 25, 1944, Oba Ladoja is widely known both as a respected statesman and politician. He served as Governor of Oyo State between 2003 and 2007 and has remained an influential figure in Nigeria’s political landscape ever since. His ascension to the Olubadan throne is viewed by many as a blend of modern political experience and deep-rooted Yoruba traditional authority.
The people of Ibadanland have expressed excitement and optimism about his reign, with expectations that his wealth of experience, both in governance and public service, will bring renewed progress, unity, and cultural preservation to the ancient city.
Further ceremonies, including homage from prominent Ibadan indigenes, traditional chiefs, political leaders, and cultural groups, are expected to follow in the coming days as the new Olubadan formally begins his reign.
