Ladoja Crowned 44th Olubadan of Ibadan, Ushering New Era

Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja was formally crowned the 44th Olubadan of Ibadan on Friday, September 26, 2025, in a grand ceremony at Mapo Hall, Ibadan. At 81 years old, Ladoja remains vibrant and energised, stepping into a role steeped in centuries of history as he becomes the first former governor in Yorubaland to ascend a royal throne. His coronation symbolizes a blending of modern governance experience with the rich traditions and intricate pageantry of Ibadan’s ancient metropolis .

Governor Seyi Makinde officiated the presentation of the staff of office to Oba Ladoja, marking the official confirmation of his status as Olubadan. This gesture followed Makinde’s notable role in upholding Ibadan and Oyo State traditions by handing over staffs of office previously to other prominent traditional rulers, including the Alaafin of Oyo and the Soun of Oke-Ogun. Makinde reaffirmed the sanctity and continuity of the Olubadan succession system and expressed hopes that Ladoja’s reign would usher in peace, progress, and economic development for the city .

Oba Ladoja’s journey within Ibadan’s political and traditional fabric spans decades. Born in Ibadan on September 25, 1944, he represented the city in the Nigerian Senate during the Third Republic and later served as Governor of Oyo State. Known for resilience and eloquence, Ladoja’s leadership style is marked by subtlety, charisma, and deep understanding of the city’s socio-political dynamics. His wealth of experience and grassroots roots uniquely position him to manage Ibadan’s complex temperament and to restore the city’s historical prominence within Yorubaland .

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Ibadan’s history as a city is intertwined with its emergence as a military and political power in Yorubaland after the fall of the old Oyo Empire. From its founding by Lagelu and subsequent leadership by Oluyole—who refused the title “Baale” to instead take Bashorun—Ibadan grew into a formidable empire noted for its military conquests and political influence. The city played pivotal roles in resisting Fulani incursions and navigating British colonial rule, which ultimately shaped modern Nigeria. Ladoja’s reign inherits this legacy, charged with balancing tradition and modernity in an era of shifting political and economic realities .

As Olubadan, Ladoja faces the challenge of reviving Ibadan’s stature as a vibrant cultural and political capital. He has called for the creation of Ibadan State to reflect the city’s growth and significance. His coronation is not merely ceremonial but signals a new chapter aimed at rebuilding the city’s relevance, drawing from its illustrious past while steering its future trajectory. With his deep connections, political acumen, and broad acceptance, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja embarks on a reign expected to be long, transformative, and impactful .

Congratulations to Kabiyesi Oba Ladoja on the dawn of the Ladoja Era in Ibadan—may his reign be marked by peace, prosperity, and the revival of Ibadan’s historic glory.