Former Oyo State Governor, Senator Rashidi Ladoja, has been officially nominated as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland. The announcement was made following a unanimous decision by the Olubadan-in-Council during a meeting held at the Oke-Aremo Palace.
The nomination was proposed by the Balogun Olubadan, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, and seconded by the Osi Olubadan, Oba Eddy Oyewole. Oba Ajibola, speaking at the gathering, confirmed that all council members fully endorsed Ladoja’s nomination, citing tradition and seniority within the hierarchy.
With the council’s endorsement secured, the next step will be the formal transmission of Ladoja’s name to Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, for official approval. Upon ratification, a coronation ceremony will be scheduled, during which Senator Ladoja will be presented with the Staff and Certificate of Office as the new Olubadan.
This significant development comes on the heels of a 21-day mourning period for the late Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who died on July 7, 2025, after just one year on the throne. Olakulehin had ascended the position following the passing of the 42nd Olubadan, Oba Dr. Mohood Lekan Balogun, Alli Okunmade II.
The nomination of Ladoja, a respected statesman and traditional titleholder, is expected to usher in a new chapter in the leadership of Ibadanland, continuing the storied legacy of one of Nigeria’s most revered monarchies.
