The Olubadan-In-Council has unanimously endorsed former Oyo State governor, Rashidi Ladoja, as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, marking a significant step toward his ascension to the revered traditional stool
Details… Olubadan-In-Council Endorses Ladoja as 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland
The council, comprising the high chiefs and kingmakers of Ibadan, met at the new Olubadan Palace in Oke Aremo to ratify Ladoja’s nomination, following the passing of Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, the 43rd Olubadan, who died on July 7, 2025.
As the Otun Olubadan—the highest-ranking chief in the civil line—Ladoja was next in line under Ibadan’s time-honoured rotational succession system, which alternates leadership between the civil and military chieftaincy lines.
Announcing the decision, the Balogun of Ibadanland, Tajudeen Ajibola, stated that the Council would forward Ladoja’s name to Governor Seyi Makinde for formal endorsement and subsequent enthronement.
“The council is confident that Ladoja will bring a wealth of experience and wisdom to the throne,” Ajibola said. “His track record as a former governor and his deep connection with the community make him an ideal candidate to lead Ibadanland into a new era.”
He added, “Under his leadership, we anticipate a period of reconciliation and development for our people. We believe that Rashidi Ladoja will uphold the values and traditions of our ancestors while embracing modernity.”
Ladoja, born on September 25, 1944, in Gambari village near Ibadan, studied at Ibadan Boys High School and Olivet Baptist High School, before earning a degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Liège in Belgium. He later worked with Total and built a successful career in business and politics.
He became governor of Oyo State in May 2003 under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), though his tenure was marked by a controversial impeachment in 2006. He was reinstated by the Supreme Court later that year and completed his term in May 2007.
In August 2024, Ladoja accepted the ceremonial beaded crown as Otun Olubadan—a step mandated by the revised chieftaincy declaration, allowing him to ascend the throne.
During a radio interview in Ibadan, Ladoja expressed calm confidence in his destiny:
“By the grace of God, I will become Olubadan. My blood pressure has been stable; anyone God destined to become Olubadan will become Olubadan.”
A public presentation ceremony is expected in the coming weeks, following the governor’s formal approval. Read More
