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By Oluseye Ojo
Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, the newly ratified Olubadan-elect of Ibadanland, has opened up about his unexpected ascension to the prestigious throne following the passing of his predecessor, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin.
Speaking at his residence on Ondo Street, Bodija, Ibadan, yesterday, he shared a narrative of his path toward the revered position. “I never thought the Olubadan throne would be mine now. It has been a journey filled with trials, but it was all by the grace of God.”
The former Governor of Oyo State recounted the shock he felt upon hearing of Oba Olakulehin’s transition, a moment that he described as a rude shock.
He stated that the development awakened him to the realities of destiny, as he paid homage to the late Olubadan and commended him as a custodian of Ibadan’s customs, and led with dignity and honour.
He also reflected on the deep connections woven into the fabric of the Ibadanland.
He began his journey to the throne more than three decades ago when he was installed as the Jagun Balogun of Ibadanland on October 1, 1993.
Since then, he has navigated the rigorous hierarchical structure of the Ibadan traditional chieftaincy system, which is noted for its complexity within Yorubaland.
“It has been a journey of patience, perseverance and divine favour. Many who started this journey with me are no longer alive,” he remarked.
Ladoja arrived in Ibadan to begin preparations for his coronation as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland yesterday.
He arrived at his family house in Isale-Osi, Ibadan South West Local Government Area, around 1:20pm. Isale-Osi is where his traditional journey began in 1993.
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He was warmly received by relatives, friends and well-wishers.
Special prayers were offered for him in both Islamic and Christian traditions, marking an important step in his journey to the throne.
After the prayers, he proceeded to his Bodija residence preparatory to undergoing the traditional rites required for his installation as Olubadan.
Ladoja, who was not around when the former Olubadan joined his ancestors last month, came to Ibadan for the first time after the 21-day mourning for the 43rd Olubadan was over.
He recalled that on the day he was installed as Jagun Olubadan, prominent figures were present, including the winner of June 12, 1993 presidential election, the late Chief MKO Abiola; the late strongman of Ibadan politics, Alhaji Lamidi Adedibu; and former Governor of Oyo State, the late Chief Kolapo Ishola.
“I was born in 1944, and I’m now the 44th Olubadan. To me, this is more than just a coincidence; it’s destiny,” he said.
Ladoja appreciated the Olubadan-in-Council for his unanimous nomination and ratification on August 4, 2025, as the 44th Olubadan.
“If they hadn’t approved me, what could I have done? All 10 council members gave their support and I’m deeply thankful,” he stated.
Ladoja, who promised to strengthen collaboration with the council, said he was keen on initiating discussions with essential stakeholders, including Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, the Oluwo, the Araba of Ibadan and other traditional authorities, in preparation for his upcoming coronation.
“I seek your prayers for wisdom and understanding. This is a sacred responsibility, and I trust God to guide me in leading Ibadanland with fairness, peace and progress,” he said.
Governor Makinde is expected to approve the council’s decision and announce a date for the presentation of staff and instruments of office to Ladoja, which would mark the final step in the process of his ascension to the throne.
