Rasheed Ladoja has lived a life of versatility and resilience engineer turned businessman, senator, governor, party-voyant politician, and traditional ruler-in-waiting. His journey highlights persistence, principled leadership, and cultural significance.
As he steps into his role as Olubadan of Ibadanland, Rasheed Ladoja continues shaping Ibadan’s soul with the benefit of legal vindication, political longevity, and enduring respect.
Rasheed Ladoja Biography
Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, popularly known as Rasheed Ladoja, is a Nigerian engineer, businessman, politician, and traditional leader-in-waiting. Born on 25 September 1944 in the Gambari area of Ibadan, Oyo State, he is set to become the 44ᵗʰ Olubadan of Ibadanland, following decades of public service and traditional rank progression.
Early Life & Education
Raised in a politically influential Muslim family in Ibadan, Ladoja attended Ibadan Boys High School (1958–1963) and Olivet Baptist High School (1964–1965).
Displaying academic promise, he proceeded to the University of Liège, Belgium, earning a B.Sc. in Chemical Engineering (1966-1972). These formative years in Europe shaped his analytical and entrepreneurial mindset.
Professional Beginnings & Business Ventures
Upon returning from Belgium, Ladoja worked at Total Nigeria from 1972 to 1985, rising through engineering and managerial ranks. Transitioning to private enterprise, he built a business empire spanning shipping, manufacturing, agriculture, telecommunications, and banking, becoming a director at Standard Trust Bank by 2000.
Political Path: Senate & Governorship
In 1993, Ladoja won a seat in the Senate under the UNCP during Nigeria’s Third Republic. His political breakthrough came in April 2003 when he was elected Governor of Oyo State on the PDP platform, assuming office on 29 May 2003.
His administration faced immediate conflict with PDP strongman Lamidi Adedibu. Despite a controversial impeachment in January 2006, Ladoja was reinstated by court order in December 2006 and completed his term in May 2007.
Political Resilience & Party Realignments
After leaving office, Ladoja battled corruption charges but was acquitted in 2019. He later ran for governorship under the Accord Party (2011 & 2015), briefly joined ADC, and in December 2018 joined the Zenith Labour Party , showcasing his enduring political relevance.
Traditional Leadership: Journey to the Throne
Ladoja’s transformation from secular power to traditional authority culminated in August 2024, when he accepted the title of Otun Olubadan, the most senior chief in Ibadan’s Egbe Agba (civil line). Following the July 2025 death of the 43ᵗʰ Olubadan, Ladoja is next in line; the 44ᵗʰ Olubadan of Ibadanland.
Personal Life & Family
He is married to Mrs. Mutiyat Ladoja, a socialite and philanthropist; their marriage of over 42 years is built on loyalty, patience, and familial bonds. They have several children, including Gafar, recently noted for graduating from Legon University in Ghana, and Grace, who received an MBE for contributions to UK music as a talent manager.
Net Worth & Business Influence
Ladoja’s wealth is estimated between $5 million to $20 million, stemming from his diversified business interests: oil and gas, telecoms, agriculture, shipping, and banking. While PeopleAI estimates are much lower (~$500K), the major media consensus supports multimillion-dollar valuation.
Legacy, Reputation & Character
A respected figure, Ladoja is often called “a man of uncommon standing” and praised for humility, integrity, and social impact. He has mentored civil servants and remains beloved in Ibadan.
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