It’s harder to be a Monarch than a Governor — Olubadan Ladoja

From Taiwo Oluwadare, Ibadan

The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, has stated that occupying the throne of a traditional ruler is far more demanding than serving as a state governor.

In a press statement by Media Aide to the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Adeola Oloko, the monarch made the assertion on Monday while receiving the Oniru of Iruland, Lagos State, Oba Wasiu Omogbolahan Lawal, who paid him a courtesy visit at his Bodija residence in Ibadan.

Oba Ladoja, a former governor of Oyo State, explained that while government officials operate with constitutional and coercive powers, traditional rulers work without such authority, yet must meet high expectations from the people.

According to him, monarchs also lack defined funding structures, unlike government institutions that enjoy clear budgetary provisions.

“There is an imperative to give constitutional roles to traditional rulers, given our closeness to the grassroots,” he said. “The expectations of our people concerning the Olubadan stool are very high, with a massive jurisdiction. This is why we think outside the box so as not to let our people down.”

The Olubadan also reminisced about his years living in Lagos, particularly on Lagos Island, describing the experience as worthwhile.

Earlier, the visiting Oniru praised Oba Ladoja’s leadership qualities, noting that transitioning from public office to a royal role comes with both excitement and challenges. Oba Lawal, himself a former Lagos State Commissioner, highlighted the unique responsibility that accompanies traditional leadership.

Several prominent Ibadan chiefs joined the Olubadan to receive the visiting monarch, including the Ekarun Balogun, High Chief Sharafadeen Alli, and former Senate Leader, Agbaakin Olubadan, Chief Teslim Folarin. The Oniru was accompanied by a delegation of chiefs and aides.