The former governor of Oyo State, Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, is set to become the next Olubadan of Ibadan after the demise of Oba Owolabi Olakunlehin.
The demise of Oba Olakulehin, born July 5, 1935, is coming barely two days after celebrating his 90th birthday.
Oba Olakulehin received the staff of office from Oyo State Governor Engr. Seyi Makinde, on July 12, 2024, as the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland.
Oba Olakulehin ascended the throne from the chieftancy rung of Balogun Olubadan, following the demise of Oba (Dr.) Moshood Lekan Balogun, Alli Okunmade II, who died at the age of 81 years on March 14, 2024.
With the demise of Oba Olakulehin, High Chief Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja, a prominent figure in Ibadan’s traditional hierarchy and a former governor of Oyo State will be enthroned as the next Olubadan
Why is Ladoja the next Olubadan?
The Olubadan throne is unique in its structured and predictable succession system, which ensures a seamless transfer of power. Unlike many traditional rulerships in Nigeria, the Olubadan succession follows a well-defined ladder within two ruling lines: the Otun Olubadan (civil line) and the Balogun (military line). Chiefs ascend through ranks in these lines until they reach the position of Otun Olubadan or Balogun of Ibadanland, making them eligible to become the Olubadan.
The current Otun Olubadan, High Chief Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja, is the next in line from the civil line following Oba Olakulehin’s reign. This system, rooted in Ibadan’s history, minimizes disputes and ensures that the most senior chief ascends the throne.
Who is Rasidi Ladoja?
High Chief Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja, born on September 25, 1944, is a seasoned politician, businessman, and traditional leader.
He served as the Governor of Oyo State from 2003 to 2006, making him one of the few individuals to hold both significant political and traditional roles in Nigeria.
As the current Otun Olubadan, Ladoja holds the highest rank in the civil line, positioning him as the likely successor to Oba Olakulehin.
When will Ladoja be enthroned as Olubadan?
As the Otun Olubadan, Ladoja is the immediate successor from the civil line. If he ascends, the Balogun line would produce the next Olubadan after him, continuing the alternating pattern. The process involves:
1. Confirmation by the Olubadan-in-Council: The council, comprising senior chiefs, verifies the successor’s eligibility.
2. Approval by the Oyo State Government: The governor, currently Seyi Makinde, must endorse the new Olubadan.
3. Coronation: A formal ceremony, often attended by dignitaries, marks the official installation.
This unique system has kept Ibadan’s kingship peaceful for hundreds of years – there are fewer fights over the throne here than in most other traditional kingdoms.
