A New Olubadan of Ibadan: What the World Should Know

Today marks a historic turning point in the history of Ibadan as Senator Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja is formally installed as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland. His ascension is more than a change of title; it is a convergence of tradition, culture, politics and legacy in one of Yorubaland’s most storied cities.

The New Monarch: Rashidi Ladoja’s Journey to the Throne

Rashidi Ladoja is no stranger to public life. Born on September 25, 1944, in Gambari, near Ogbomoso in Oyo State. He attended Ibadan Boys High School, where he excelled in academics and later taught briefly. He attended Olivet Heights, Oyo, for his Higher School Certificate programme, after winning a scholarship based on outstanding performance in entrance exams. He would later travel abroad on scholarship to Belgium, where he studied Chemical Engineering.

In 1972, he joined Total Oil Nigeria where he worked for 13 years in various positions before entering private business in 1985. His business interests include shipping, manufacturing, banking, agriculture, and transportation. He built a successful career in the oil industry, working during a crucial era of refinery expansion and petroleum sector development in Nigeria.

Oba Ladoja first made his mark in politics when he was elected Senator in the short-lived Third Republic and later became Governor of Oyo State in 2003 under the PDP. Two years later, he was impeached in what many described as a conspiracy driven by then-President Olusegun Obasanjo and political strongman, Lamidi Adedibu.

However, his removal was overturned by the courts after 11 months. With his reinstatement, Ladoja officially resumed office on December 12, 2006. But, he, failed to win the PDP nomination for a second term and backed the candidate of the All Nigeria Peoples Party in the 2007 election, Senator Abiola Ajimobi.

After the 2007 election, Ladoja’s attempts to return to the Agodi Government House were unsuccessful. He was the governorship candidate for Accord in the 2011 and 2015 elections but lost to Ajimobi. In 2017, he merged Accord into the PDP and later moved to the new coalition party, the African Democratic Congress, in 2018. Ladoja again left for the Zenith Labour Party in December 2018.

The road to becoming Olubadan was indeed long as it spanned decades. His journey in the traditional chieftaincy ladder began when he became the Mogaji of Arusa compound in Isale Osi in the early 1990s. Over time, he advanced through the complex dual succession system of Ibadan (the “Otun” and “Balogun” lines) until he became Olubadan‑in‑waiting.

On August 4, 2025, the Olubadan-in-Council submitted his nomination to the Oyo State Government, and on August 21 he was officially approved as Olubadan‑designate by Governor Seyi Makinde under the 1957 Olubadan Chieftaincy Declaration.

Thus, today’s coronation is not a sudden elevation but the culmination of a long, patient climb through Ibadan’s centuries-old traditions. To understand why this occasion matters so deeply, one must appreciate the uniqueness and weight of the Olubadan institution.

Unlike many other Yoruba monarchies where eligibility is limited to specific royal lineages, the Olubadan succession system is unique and more “open” in a sense. Two parallel lines, the Otun (civil) and the Balogun (military) lines advance side by side. Aspirants to the throne rise step by step through offices in their respective lines, and when the reigning Olubadan passes, the next eligible in line is elevated.

This ladder system rewards longevity, patience, service, and seniority. It helps prevent abrupt disruption, because the line of succession is known and anticipated.

Custodian of Culture, Unity, and Moral Authority

Though modern governance lies mostly in elected and bureaucratic hands, the Olubadan still carries symbolic, cultural and moral weight in Ibadanland and beyond.

• He is a custodian of tradition, presiding over festivals, rites, customs and values that tie the community to its past.

• He plays a role in conflict resolution, arbitration, and local mediation.

• He embodies the identity of Ibadan, helping to preserve unity among diverse quarters and neighborhoods.

• His voice carries moral authority — in matters of peace, security, community development and social harmony.

Bridging Tradition and Modernity

In the 21st century, the role of a traditional monarch has had to evolve. The new Olubadan is expected to navigate between centuries-old customs and the challenges of modern urban life, from security and infrastructure to youth empowerment and civic ethics. The stature of the throne gives him potential access to leverage goodwill, networks, and influence to support development initiatives.

The installation of Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan is more than a ceremonial affair. It represents the continuity of a time‑honored system, the fusion of political experience and traditional legitimacy, and a fresh chapter in Ibadan’s cultural and civic life.

As the crown settles on his brow today, the expectations rest heavy: to be a steward of culture, a voice of unity, and a moral compass for the people. May his reign be marked by peace, prosperity, wisdom and innovation — and may he carry the weight of tradition with vision for the future.