Former Governor of Oyo State, High Chief Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, is on course to become the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland after the passing of the 43rd Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin.
Oba Olakulehin died in the early hours of Monday, July 7, 2025, at the age of 90. He had been installed as Olubadan in July 2024 by Governor Seyi Makinde, following the demise of his predecessor, Oba Dr. Mohood Lekan Balogun, Alli Okunmade II, who died in March 2024.
Succession Tradition Favors Ladoja
Ibadan’s unique succession system alternates the Olubadan throne between two lines: Egbe Agba (civil) and Balogun (military). With Oba Olakulehin having ascended from the Balogun line, the next monarch is expected from the Egbe Agba line.
High Chief Rashidi Ladoja, a prominent figure from the Egbe Agba line and the most senior chief in that hierarchy, is therefore next in line to the throne. He currently holds the title of Otun Olubadan, positioning him as the heir apparent.
Ladoja’s Rise Through Tradition and Politics
Ladoja is not new to leadership. He served as Governor of Oyo State from 2003 to 2007 and has had a long political career including time in the Senate. Alongside his political journey, he has steadily climbed the Ibadan traditional hierarchy, culminating in his installation as Otun Olubadan in August 2024.
The title, which he had once declined due to controversies surrounding the reform of the Olubadan Chieftaincy Declaration, was conferred on him by the late Oba Olakulehin during a grand ceremony at the Aafin Olubadan, Oke Aremo, Ibadan. The event was attended by dignitaries including the then-Acting Governor of Oyo State, Bayo Lawal, who officially handed over the staff and instruments of office.
That coronation effectively ended longstanding disagreements surrounding his position in the traditional council, clearing the path for his eventual elevation.
Ladoja Speaks on Peace, Unity, and Tradition
After accepting the beaded crown in 2024, Ladoja dismissed fears that the reforms would lead to conflict within the ancient city. He affirmed that Ibadan remains united and capable of resolving its internal issues without external interference.
“Those thinking that Ibadan will burn are liars,” he said. “We always find a way to resolve our issues behind closed doors, because we know what is right.”
Ladoja explained that his previous reservations were based on a lack of clarity about the roles and domains of newly crowned high chiefs, but those concerns had since been addressed.
He said, “It was misunderstanding that caused past disagreements. We wanted to know our role and domain as crowned kings in the Olubadan line. The declaration now makes it clear that Otun, Osi, Asipa, Ekerin, and others in our line are eligible to become Olubadan.”
Reflecting on the unpredictability of the succession process, he added, “Only those destined by God become Olubadan. Some reached the rank of Otun or Balogun but never ascended the throne.”
A New Chapter for Ibadan
With the traditional structure firmly in place and the succession line clear, Ibadan now looks forward to welcoming Rashidi Ladoja as its next paramount ruler. His expected ascension to the throne is seen as a blend of experience, political influence, and traditional authority.
The formal announcement and installation will follow meetings by the Olubadan-in-Council and ratification by the Oyo State Government.
If confirmed, High Chief Ladoja will bring a wealth of leadership experience to the position, continuing Ibadan’s legacy of orderly and peaceful succession while steering the ancient city into a new era of tradition and progress.
