By Ademola Adekusibe
September 26, 2025
Ibadan | September 26, 2025
Former Òyó State Governor, High Chief Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, has been officially crowned as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, marking a historic moment in the city’s traditional leadership.
The traditional rites were performed early Friday morning at Ose Meji House, where kingmakers formally placed the symbolic Akoko leaves on his head, signifying the completion of the core coronation rituals.
Following the crowning, Ọba Ladoja will proceed to Mapo Hall for the presentation of the staff of office by the Òyó State Government, an event expected to draw top government officials, eminent personalities, traditional rulers from across Yorùbáland, and thousands of Ibadan indigenes.
The coronation comes after the passing of the late Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who joined his ancestors in July 2025. Unlike the controversies that trailed Olakulehin’s emergence, Ladoja’s ascension has been described by the Balogun of Ibadan-designate, Ọba Tajudeen Ajibola, as peaceful and devoid of disputes, thanks to open communication and early alignment among the kingmakers.
Ladoja, who served as Governor of Òyó State between 2003 and 2007, is a prominent political figure and businessman. His elevation to the throne has been hailed as a fusion of politics, tradition, and cultural heritage, with many Ibadan indigenes celebrating his deep-rooted ties to the city.
Festivities have already taken over the ancient city, with roads leading to Mapo Hall filled with well-wishers, cultural displays, and security operatives ensuring order during the landmark event.
The official presentation of the staff of office later today will formally seal Oba Ladoja’s reign as the Olubadan of Ibadanland.
