Ibadan, the heart of Yoruba civilization, is once again on the brink of a historic royal transition. Following the recent passing of Oba Owolabi Olakulehin who ascended the throne in July 2024; former governor of Oyo State and respected high chief, Senator Rasheed Adewolu Ladoja, is next in line to become the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.
A Monarch’s Reign Cut Short
The late Oba Olakulehin was crowned on July 12, 2024, at a grand coronation held at the iconic Mapo Hall, a ceremony graced by President Bola Tinubu, state governors, royal fathers, and leading figures across Nigeria. He reigned from the newly built Olubadan Palace in Oke-Aremo; an architectural feat commissioned by Governor Seyi Makinde before his passing less than a year later.
The Rotational Magic of Ibadan’s Chieftaincy
Unlike many traditional Yoruba monarchies where the throne is hereditary, Ibadan runs a rotational chieftaincy system, alternating between two hierarchies: the Balogun Line (military) and the Otun Line (civil). Oba Olakulehin emerged from the Balogun line, so succession now reverts to the Otun line where High Chief Rasheed Ladoja is the highest-ranking chief as Otun Olubadan.
This well-organized system requires aspirants to rise patiently through decades-long ranks; a test of both loyalty and leadership. Ladoja has passed that test.
Who Is Rasheed Ladoja?
Born on September 24, 1944, in Gambari, Ibadan, Ladoja’s life journey reflects a rich blend of academic brilliance, corporate leadership, political turbulence, and now royal ascension.
- Attended Ibadan Boys High School (1958–1963)
- Studied at Olivet Baptist High School (1964–1965)
- Earned a Chemical Engineering degree from the University of Liège, Belgium (1966–1972)
From Senate to Agodi
His political career began in 1993 when he was elected as a senator during General Sani Abacha’s short-lived transition. In 2003, he became governor of Oyo State under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). However, his administration was marked by a bitter political clash with PDP kingmaker Lamidi Adedibu, which led to his controversial impeachment in 2006.
In an unprecedented move, Ladoja was reinstated by the courts in December 2006, after the Supreme Court nullified his impeachment. Despite this, he failed to secure PDP’s ticket for re-election in 2007 and defected to opposition platforms including the Action Congress, Accord Party, and later, Zenith Labour Party (ZLP).
EFCC Charges and Political Battles
In 2008, Ladoja faced legal heat from the EFCC over alleged misappropriation of N1.9 billion from the sale of state shares. Though briefly detained, he maintained his innocence and remained active in politics until he retired in 2018 to focus on traditional responsibilities.
Tradition Meets Legacy
Though he once rejected a ceremonial beaded crown introduced during the reign of Governor Ajimobi, Ladoja accepted the title in August 2024 when the late Oba Olakulehin officially crowned him; a symbolic moment that unified political modernity with ancient Ibadan tradition.
His upcoming coronation is not just a continuation of tradition but also a powerful narrative of patience, resilience, and service. For many, Ladoja represents the convergence of governance and kingship, embodying decades of public leadership and deep cultural roots.
What This Means for Ibadan
As the city anticipates the official coronation of Senator Rasheed Ladoja as Olubadan, residents and Yoruba traditionalists are hopeful for a reign that bridges the past and the future. With a modern palace, seasoned political acumen, and years of cultural involvement, Ladoja’s monarchy could usher in a new era of visibility and dignity for Ibadanland.
Already, preparations are underway for the formal announcement and traditional rites that will welcome the 44th Olubadan to the throne.
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