The Olubadan-in-Council has officially nominated former Oyo State Governor, Senator Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland. The historic decision was reached during a closed-door meeting held on Monday at the Olubadan Palace, Oke-Aremo, Ibadan.
The nomination comes following the conclusion of the 21-day mourning period for the late Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, the 43rd Olubadan, who passed away on July 7, 2025.
The motion for Ladoja’s nomination was moved by the Balogun Olubadan, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, and seconded by the Osi Olubadan, Oba Eddy Oyewole, after which all members of the council signed the resolution in a show of unanimity.
Oba Ajibola, speaking after the meeting, confirmed that the council would immediately forward Ladoja’s name to the Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, for official ratification. Upon approval, the governor is expected to fix a date for the formal presentation of the Staff and Certificate of Office, culminating in the coronation ceremony.
“The decision was unanimous. Oba Ladoja is next-in-line and has been found worthy in character and experience to ascend the throne,” Ajibola stated.
A Return to Royal Roots
Senator Ladoja, a respected elder statesman and seasoned politician, served as the Governor of Oyo State from 2003 to 2007. He currently holds the traditional title of Otun Olubadan, to which he was elevated in August 2024—placing him as the most senior chief in the Egbe Agba (civil) line of succession.
His nomination reaffirms Ibadanland’s unique and orderly traditional ascension system, which alternates between the Egbe Agba and Balogun (military) lines. The late Olubadan, Oba Olakulehin, emerged from the Balogun line, thus paving the way for the civil line to produce the next monarch.
Symbol of Unity and Stability
The Olubadan of Ibadanland remains one of the most revered traditional institutions in Nigeria, with a structured hierarchy and a reputation for peaceful transitions. Ladoja’s nomination is expected to further cement stability and progress within the Ibadan traditional system and bring together various interest groups in the city.
Stakeholders across Ibadan and beyond have welcomed the nomination, citing Ladoja’s governance experience, royal lineage, and calm demeanor as key assets for his forthcoming reign.
With the formal nomination now complete, all eyes are on Governor Makinde for the next phase in this significant chapter of Ibadanland’s history.