The Olubadan-In-Council has unanimously endorsed former Oyo State governor, Senator Rashidi Ladoja, as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.
The endorsement took place at the new Olubadan Palace in Oke Aremo, Ibadan, following the passing of Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, the 43rd Olubadan, on July 7, 2025.
As the Otun Olubadan—the highest-ranking chief in the civil line—Ladoja is next in line for the throne under Ibadan’s unique rotational chieftaincy system.
Announcing the council’s decision, the Balogun of Ibadanland, Tajudeen Ajibola, stated that Ladoja’s name would be officially forwarded to Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde for approval and formal installation in the coming days.
“The council is confident that Senator Ladoja will bring a wealth of experience and wisdom to the throne,” Ajibola said. “His distinguished public service and deep-rooted connection to Ibadan make him a fitting candidate to lead Ibadanland into a new chapter.”
Ajibola also stressed the council’s hopes for unity and development under Ladoja’s reign, adding, “We anticipate a period of reconciliation, progress, and the continued preservation of our cherished traditions. Ladoja has the capacity to balance our cultural heritage with the demands of modern leadership.”
Born on September 25, 1944, in Gambari village near Ibadan, Ladoja received his early education at Ibadan Boys’ High School and Olivet Baptist High School before earning a degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Liège in Belgium. He began his professional career at Total, later venturing into business and politics.
Ladoja served as Governor of Oyo State from May 2003 until his controversial impeachment in January 2006. He was reinstated by a Supreme Court ruling in December 2006 and completed his tenure in May 2007.
In August 2024, Ladoja accepted the ceremonial beaded crown as Otun Olubadan—fulfilling a key requirement for ascension to the Olubadan throne under the amended chieftaincy declaration.
Speaking in a radio interview in Ibadan, he said: “By the grace of God, I will become Olubadan. My blood pressure has been stable; whoever God has destined to be Olubadan will surely be.”
A formal ceremony to publicly present Ladoja as the next Olubadan is expected to follow the governor’s official confirmation.
