Former Oyo State governor and Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Rashidi Ladoja, is set to become the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland following the death of Oba Owolabi Olakulehin.
Ladoja, 80, who served as governor of Oyo State from 2003 to 2007, is the most senior chief in the civil line of the Olubadan succession system, making him the next in line for the throne. He will ascend as monarch under the traditional rotational arrangement between the civil and military lines of Ibadan chieftaincy hierarchy.
A statement from the Olubadan-in-Council is expected to follow, confirming his nomination before official approval by Governor Seyi Makinde.
Ladoja’s name began trending on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday as Nigerians congratulate him.
Many users celebrated the transition from political leadership to a revered traditional position. One user wrote, “From Governor to King! Rasheed Ladoja is the new Olubadan. History made!”
Although Ladoja had initially resisted the elevation of high chiefs to “beaded crown Obas” under former Governor Abiola Ajimobi’s reform, he later accepted the status following amendments signed into law by Governor Makinde in August 2024. The new law requires that any incoming Olubadan must be a beaded crown Oba.
In a 2024 interview, Ladoja affirmed his readiness for the position. “I have accepted the beaded crown because it has become a condition to become Olubadan. Yes, I will be the next Olubadan,” he said.
Born on September 25, 1944, in Gambari, Ibadan, Ladoja is a trained engineer, businessman and politician. He was impeached in 2006 but reinstated by the court. He has remained an influential figure in Oyo politics and traditional affairs.
An official date for his coronation is yet to be announced.
