Makinde Approves Senator Rashidi Ladoja as 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland

The ancient city of Ibadan is set to make history as Oyo State Governor Engr. Seyi Makinde has approved the nomination of Senator Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, a former governor of the state, as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland. The announcement was made official ahead of the coronation scheduled for Friday, September 26, 2025, which coincides with the day after Ladoja’s 81st birthday.

The enthronement of Oba Ladoja represents a landmark moment in Ibadan’s history, as he becomes the first Ibadan indigene who once served as governor to ascend the prestigious throne. He will also be the second person to have served as a Senator before becoming Olubadan, following the footsteps of the late Oba (Senator) Lekan Balogun, the 42nd Olubadan, who passed away in 2024.

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A Historic Moment for Ibadan

News of the governor’s approval sparked jubilation across Ibadanland and beyond, with indigenes and residents expressing excitement and pride. For many, the ascension of Oba Ladoja symbolizes the unity of political leadership and traditional authority in Ibadan, a city that has long played a pivotal role in the political, cultural, and economic development of Yorubaland.

The coronation, expected to be one of the grandest cultural events in recent memory, will not only usher in a new era of leadership but also reaffirm Ibadan’s place as a city steeped in tradition and history. The Olubadan stool is widely regarded as one of the most respected and orderly succession systems in Africa, admired globally for its fairness and stability.

The Journey of Senator Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja

Oba Ladoja’s journey to the throne has been one of remarkable public service and community engagement. Born in 1944, Ladoja built a career in business and politics, rising to become Governor of Oyo State in 2003. His tenure, though marked by political turbulence, was notable for infrastructural development, educational reforms, and policies that sought to uplift the lives of ordinary people.

After leaving office, Ladoja remained deeply involved in Ibadan’s socio-political landscape, maintaining his influence as a respected elder statesman. His emergence as the Olubadan has been widely described as the crowning glory of his decades of service to the people.

Beyond politics, Ladoja has played a vital role in fostering community development projects and championing initiatives that promote Ibadan’s cultural identity. His coronation represents not just a personal achievement but also a fulfillment of Ibadan’s cherished rotational traditional system, which ensures every qualified chief has the opportunity to ascend the throne.

Coronation Preparations in Top Gear

The Olubadan-in-Council, in its statement, revealed that preparations for the coronation ceremony are in full swing. The event will attract a diverse array of dignitaries, including traditional rulers across Yorubaland, political leaders from all parties, top government officials, captains of industry, and Ibadan sons and daughters both at home and in the diaspora.

Hotels and event centers in Ibadan are reportedly fully booked, as thousands of guests from within Nigeria and abroad prepare to witness the historic occasion. Cultural organizations and associations have also lined up programs to celebrate the coronation, further projecting Ibadan as a center of Yoruba tradition and pride.

Security agencies have reassured residents and visitors that robust measures are in place to guarantee peace and safety throughout the celebrations. Traffic management plans, crowd control strategies, and emergency services have been coordinated to ensure a smooth and successful ceremony.

Ibadan’s Globally Respected Succession System

The enthronement of Oba Ladoja also underscores the uniqueness of the Ibadan succession system, which has often been praised for its transparency, orderliness, and resistance to disputes. Unlike other traditional systems that sometimes spark succession battles, the Olubadan line of ascension follows a rotational and merit-based system, where qualified chiefs gradually progress through the ranks until they are eligible for the throne.

This system has not only preserved Ibadan’s traditional heritage but has also contributed to its reputation as a city of peace, culture, and innovation. With Ladoja’s emergence, the system once again demonstrates its fairness and reliability.

A Symbol of Unity and Heritage

The excitement surrounding Ladoja’s ascension is not merely about tradition—it also reflects the broader aspirations of Ibadan people for unity, development, and continuity. As a political leader turned traditional monarch, Oba Ladoja carries the weight of expectation to bridge the gap between modern governance and age-old tradition.

Observers believe that his reign could open new opportunities for Ibadan’s cultural renaissance, economic growth, and social harmony. With his deep political experience and long-standing connection to the grassroots, Oba Ladoja is expected to bring a unique blend of wisdom and leadership to the Olubadan throne.

As Ibadan counts down to September 26, anticipation continues to build. The city, already buzzing with activities, is preparing for what many describe as a once-in-a-lifetime celebration. The coronation of Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja is not only a historic milestone but also a moment of cultural pride for the Yoruba people worldwide.

By ascending the throne a day after his 81st birthday, Oba Ladoja will step into history books as a leader whose journey from political power to traditional royalty embodies the resilience, heritage, and unity of Ibadanland.

In the words of cultural leaders, the coronation will mark the beginning of a new dawn in Ibadan’s traditional institution, symbolizing both continuity and progress. As the drums of celebration prepare to echo through the city, the people of Ibadan look forward with pride and hope to the reign of their new monarch.