The Oba Rashidi Ladoja has declared an end to the long-standing practice where wealth and influence determined entry into Ibadan’s revered chieftaincy line, introducing a new merit-driven system for aspiring Mogajis.
The monarch made this known on Friday at the Olubadan Palace in Oke-Aremo, Ibadan, during the installation of Oladiran Alabi Yeronbi as Jagun Olubadan — the traditional entry point into the Olubadan succession line.
Speaking through the Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, Ladoja emphasized that financial inducements and influence-peddling would no longer guarantee elevation within the traditional hierarchy.
Instead, prospective candidates must now demonstrate verifiable contributions to community and family development, alongside possessing sound education and legitimate means of livelihood.
“This is a new standard, not for personal gain but for generations yet unborn,” the monarch stated, noting that the Olubadan Advisory Council fully supports the reform.
To ensure transparency, the palace constituted three screening committees to assess applicants. According to the Olubadan, only candidates who can provide concrete evidence of grassroots impact will be considered whenever vacancies arise.
Alabi emerged as the top candidate among 102 applicants, a selection the monarch described as a just recognition of merit. He also acknowledged the efforts of other contenders, urging them not to be discouraged despite the limited number of available positions.
In his acceptance remarks, Alabi pledged to scale up initiatives in youth empowerment, education, and community development, promising a more structured and visible approach to grassroots impact.
“We will strengthen opportunities for our youths through empowerment and employment initiatives. This is what we have always done, but it will now be more organized,” he said.
He reaffirmed his commitment to community service, pointing to past efforts in scholarships, vocational training, and entrepreneurship support.
Addressing land grabbing, the new Jagun echoed the Olubadan’s firm stance against the practice, describing it as unnecessary and unacceptable.
“There is no justification for land grabbing. We came with nothing and will leave with nothing. I fully align with Kabiyesi’s position,” he said.
On security, Alabi stressed the importance of community-level vigilance, noting that sustainable safety begins at the grassroots.
“A secure city starts with secure communities. When I became Mogaji, one of my first actions was to restore order in a difficult area. That approach will continue,” he added.
Alabi was previously installed as Mogaji of the Basorun Fajinmi Yeronbi dynasty in 2017 by the late Oba Saliu Adetunji.
