Ibadan is set to witness a historic moment at Mapo Hall, where Oba Rashidi Ladoja will be crowned the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, marking the culmination of a 32-year journey through the city’s revered chieftaincy system. The coronation, anticipated to be the grandest in Ibadan’s history, will draw Nigeria’s elite, led by President Bola Tinubu, a close friend of the new monarch. Expected attendees include former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, governors, ex-governors, traditional rulers, industry leaders, and other prominent figures, hosted by Governor Seyi Makinde.
The city is alive with excitement, from Ring Road to Bodija and Oja’ba to Ojoo, as cultural displays, drumming, and processions fill the streets. Hotels are fully booked, with visitors arriving from across Nigeria and beyond. Vibrant posters, banners, and billboards featuring Oba Ladoja in royal regalia adorn major roads, bearing slogans like “Long Live the Olubadan” and “Oba Ladoja: A King for the People.” At night, illuminated displays transform Ibadan into a carnival-like spectacle.
A Steady Climb to the Throne
Ladoja’s journey began in the 1980s as Mogaji of the Ladoja family at Arusa Compound, Isale-Osi. In 1993, he was installed as Jagun Olubadan by Oba Yesufu Oloyede Asanike, marking his entry into the chieftaincy hierarchy. He progressed through the 22 ranks of the Otun line—Jagun, Ajia, Bada, Aare Onibon, Gbonnka, Aare Egbe Omo-Oota, Lagunna, Aare Ago, Ayingun, Asaju, Ikolaba, Aare Alasa, Agba Akin, Ekefa, Maye, Abese, Ekarun, Ekerin, Ashipa, Osi, Otun Olubadan—before reaching the throne. In 2022, as Otun Olubadan, he became the highest-ranking civil chief, positioning him as the next Olubadan. Ladoja played key roles in nominating the late Oba Lekan Balogun and presiding over the nomination of the late Oba Owolabi Olakulehin.
Overcoming Obstacles
Ladoja’s path was not without challenges. In 2017, he and the late Oba Saliu Adetunji opposed then-Governor Abiola Ajimobi’s elevation of 21 Ibadan obas, defending the city’s traditional succession system in court. When Governor Makinde later reintroduced a similar law, Ladoja resisted, stating, “I seek only the Olubadan crown.” He argued that Ibadan’s egalitarian chieftaincy system, allowing a Mogaji to rise to Olubadan, must remain unpoliticized. In 2024, a new law required high chiefs to accept beaded crowns for Olubadan eligibility. After persuasion from Ibadan elders, Ladoja accepted the crown in August 2024, conferred by Oba Olakulehin in his first official act.
A Dream Fulfilled
Today, Oba Ladoja, Arusa I and the first Olubadan from his family compound, realizes a lifelong ambition. In August 2024, he declared on a radio program, “By God’s grace, I will become Olubadan. No obstacle can stop God’s will.” His prophecy has come to pass. Ladoja’s cordial ties with past Olubadans, including Oba Adetunji, who prayed for his ascension, reflect his deep roots in Ibadan’s traditions. Adetunji, the first from his lineage to become Olubadan, stood with Ladoja against reforms, cementing their bond.
A Storied Legacy
Ladoja’s journey is unique in Yorubaland. A former senator (1993) and Oyo State governor (2003–2007), he navigated political storms, including an illegal impeachment overturned by the Supreme Court in 2006. He joins a rare group of Nigerian traditional rulers with political backgrounds, like the late Oba Adesoji Aderemi, former governor of the Western Region. However, Ladoja is the first in the South-West to bridge electoral politics and monarchy so prominently.
A Beloved Monarch
Oba Ladoja’s popularity is evident in the jubilation across Ibadan. From Mokola to Oke-Ado, banners and billboards proclaim his reign, reflecting a deep connection with the people. His battles against political heavyweights, including former President Olusegun Obasanjo and Chief Lamidi Adedibu, endeared him to the masses. Known for timely salary payments as governor and his simple, approachable style—often seen in Ankara and cap—Ladoja resonates with traders, artisans, and everyday citizens. His goodwill bolstered successors like the late Governor Ajimobi and Governor Makinde.
The stream of visitors, including governors, lawmakers, and traditional rulers, underscores Ladoja’s widespread respect and the Olubadan throne’s national significance. As Ibadan celebrates, Oba Ladoja ascends not just as a monarch but as a symbol of resilience, tradition, and unity. God save the King!
