Ladoja’s Journey to the Throne of Olubadan

Former Oyo State Governor, Senator Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, will on Friday be crowned as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, marking the end of a long and eventful journey through the city’s unique succession system.

Born on September 25, 1944, in Gambari, Ibadan, Ladoja studied Chemical Engineering at the University of Liège in Belgium before venturing into business and later politics. He served briefly as a senator in the Third Republic and was Governor of Oyo State between 2003 and 2006. His tenure was marked by political turbulence, including an impeachment and subsequent reinstatement.

His traditional journey began in the early 1990s when he was installed as Mogaji of the Arusa compound in Isale-Osi. On October 1, 1993, he was elevated to the title of Jagun Olubadan, the first rung on Ibadan’s elaborate chieftaincy ladder. Over the next three decades, he patiently climbed the ranks of the Otun (civil) line, rising step by step through several titles until he became Otun Olubadan in 2022, the last position before ascending the throne.

Ladoja was a prominent voice in defending the traditional order of Ibadan. In 2017, he openly opposed the move by former governor Abiola Ajimobi to install multiple monarchs in Ibadan, insisting that the integrity of the succession system must be preserved. His resistance extended to attempts to make the wearing of a beaded crown a prerequisite for promotion. However, after years of back and forth, he eventually accepted the crown in August 2024, a decision seen as paving the way for his enthronement.

Following the death of the 43rd Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, on July 7, 2025, the Olubadan-in-Council unanimously nominated Ladoja as the next king. Governor Seyi Makinde formally approved his appointment on August 21, 2025, confirming him as the Olubadan-designate. His coronation is scheduled to take place at Mapo Hall on September 26, 2025.

Ladoja’s ascension is historic, as he becomes the first former governor and senator to mount the throne of Ibadan. For many, his journey symbolises patience, resilience, and a deep respect for tradition. His coronation is being viewed not only as a personal triumph but also as a vindication of his steadfast defence of Ibadan’s revered chieftaincy system.