Rashidi Ladoja Set to Become 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland

Ibadan, Oyo State – Following the passing of the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, on Monday, July 7, 2025, former Oyo State Governor, Alhaji Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, is poised to ascend the revered throne as the 44th Olubadan.

Oba Olakulehin, who was installed in July 2024, reigned for less than a year, having passed away at the age of 90. His demise now shifts the unique rotational succession system of Ibadanland to the Otun Line (civil line), where Senator Ladoja, as the current Otun Olubadan, is the most senior and highest-ranking chief.

Ibadan’s traditional leadership system is distinct, alternating between two main lines: the Egbe Agba (civil) and the Balogun (military). This structured progression, based on seniority rather than heredity, has historically ensured a relatively seamless transfer of power, minimizing disputes often seen in other monarchies. With Oba Olakulehin having emerged from the Balogun line, the custom dictates that the next Olubadan will be from the Otun line.

Born on September 25, 1944, in Gambari village near Ibadan, Ladoja’s journey is a blend of academia, corporate experience, politics, and traditional leadership. He holds a degree in chemical engineering from the University of Liège in Belgium and began his career at Total before venturing into business and politics.

Ladoja served as the Governor of Oyo State from May 2003 to January 2006, when he faced a controversial impeachment. He was later reinstated by a Supreme Court ruling in December 2006 and completed his term in May 2007. Since his governorship, he has remained an active political figure.

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A significant step towards his ascension occurred in August 2024, when Ladoja accepted the ceremonial beaded crown as Otun Olubadan. This acceptance was crucial, as a revised chieftaincy declaration mandated that only Beaded Crown Obas are eligible for the Olubadan throne. This amendment had sparked some controversy, with some critics perceiving it as politically motivated by Governor Seyi Makinde, given Ladoja’s initial resistance to accepting the crown unlike his peers.

However, the state government maintained that the amendment aligned with recommendations from the late Oba Balogun’s review committee, framing it as a necessary cultural reform.

Ladoja himself has expressed his confidence in becoming the Olubadan, stating on a private radio station in Ibadan, “By the grace of God, I will become Olubadan. My blood pressure has been stable; anyone God destined to become Olubadan will become Olubadan.”

With the throne now vacant, the Olubadan-in-Council and the kingmakers are expected to formally propose Alhaji Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja as the next Olubadan of Ibadanland, a decision that will usher in a new era for the ancient city.