Former Oyo State Governor and serving Senator, Rashidi Ladoja, has been nominated as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadan land, sparking widespread discussion among indigenes and royal observers about his suitability for the revered throne.
The nomination was unanimously endorsed by the Olubadan-in-Council during a closed-door meeting held at the Oke-Aremo palace on Monday, August 4, 2025. Ladoja, who currently holds the title of Otun Olubadan, is next in line under the city’s traditional civil succession hierarchy, following the death of Oba Owolabi Olakulehin.
The former governor’s selection adheres strictly to the age-old rotational system between the civil and military lines of ascension in Ibadan. However, his past political affiliations, high-profile status, and complex history with traditional authority have reignited public conversations about whether his rise to the throne represents continuity, controversy, or a break from tradition.
Chief Tajudeen Ajibola, Balogun Olubadan of the military line, confirmed that all 11 kingmakers, including Ladoja himself, backed the decision. “We will forward the resolutions of our meeting to our Governor, Seyi Makinde. He will now pick a date to present a staff of office to the new Olubadan,” he stated.
While the nomination awaits official ratification, the coronation will not occur this week due to the pending burial of the late monarch, Oba Olakulehin, who passed away in July 2025.
The question now reverberating through Ibadan and beyond is whether Ladoja\’s ascent represents a new chapter of peace and progress, or the beginning of fresh controversies in the city’s royal landscape.
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