Oba Rashidi Ladoja, former governor of Oyo State and Olubadan-designate, is set to be crowned the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland without dispute, the Balogun of Ibadan-designate, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, has stated.
The announcement comes as preparations for the coronation began on Monday with interdenominational prayers at the Olubadan Palace in Oke-Aremo, Ibadan North Local Government Area. The event drew notable chiefs, including Otun Balogun Oba Kolawole Adegbola, Ashipa Balogun Oba Dauda Azeez, and Ekaarun Olubadan Oba Adebayo Akande.
Oba Ladoja is scheduled to receive the staff and instrument of office at Mapo Hall, Ibadan, on Friday, September 26. President Bola Tinubu is expected to lead dignitaries from across the country at the event.
Oba Ajibola explained that the smooth transition contrasts with the previous succession of Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, the 43rd Olubadan, who passed away on July 7, 2025, at age 90. He highlighted that Ladoja has actively coordinated with palace authorities, eliminating uncertainties that delayed the earlier succession.
“The throne has clear lines and is well prepared. There is no dispute, and everyone is satisfied with the choice of Oba Ladoja,” Ajibola said, noting that the Olubadan succession follows the two-line system of Otun and Balogun.
He also praised Ladoja’s political experience, expressing confidence that the former governor’s leadership would benefit Ibadan. “If he combines his political experience with traditional leadership and engages the people, Ibadan will prosper,” Ajibola added.
At Monday’s prayers, Ajeniyi Ajewole, President General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes, said Ladoja’s reign would usher in peace and development, noting the historical significance of a former senator and governor ascending to the Olubadan stool.
Religious leaders also participated in the event. Sunday Makinde, former Methodist Church prelate, urged Ladoja to foster peaceful co-existence among Christians, Muslims, and traditional faith followers. Chief Imam Abdulganiyu Agbotomokekere prayed for peace and progress during the new reign.
The ceremony featured cultural and religious observances, including Iyere Ifa rituals, Psalms reading, and Quran recitations. Other dignitaries included the state Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Joshua Akinyemiju, and Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Daud Makanjuola.
Oba Ajibola emphasized that the coronation’s peaceful conduct reflects divine will and the structured succession system of Ibadanland.
