Rashidi Ladoja at 80: A Journey Through History, Trials, and Triumphs By Femi Ajiboye

As Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja turns 80, his life story has not only shaped the political landscape of Oyo State but also left a significant imprint on Nigerian politics. His rise from humble beginnings, his time as governor, and his experiences navigating political turbulence offer valuable lessons for generations to come.

Ladoja’s early life laid the foundation for the leadership role he would later assume. Born on September 25, 1944, in Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State, he grew up in a respected family with a tradition of public service. He pursued his education both locally and abroad, earning a degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Liège in Belgium. His early career saw him thrive in the oil sector, where he worked with Total Nigeria, ultimately becoming an influential businessman.

However, it was in politics that Ladoja would make his most indelible mark. In 2003, he was elected governor of Oyo State on the platform of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), a victory many attributed to his mix of business acumen and administrative discipline. His administration set out to address key challenges in the state, particularly in education, healthcare, and infrastructure. Ladoja believed in policies that would directly impact the lives of ordinary citizens, with a focus on human development.

Ladoja’s tenure as governor, however, was not without its battles. His political ordeal began with the infamous impeachment saga in 2005, spearheaded by the late Lamidi Adedibu, the political godfather of Ibadan, and supported by his deputy, Adebayo Alao-Akala. Their power struggle reached a fever pitch when Ladoja resisted Adedibu’s political demands, leading to his impeachment. Although controversially removed from office, Ladoja fought his removal in court and, in a landmark ruling in 2006, the Supreme Court reinstated him as governor, a momentous victory that underscored his resolve.

Ladoja’s relationship with Alao-Akala remained strained after their fallout. When Akala succeeded him as governor following the 2007 elections, the animosity between them grew, each accusing the other of mismanagement and betrayal. Akala’s administration attempted to erase Ladoja’s influence in the state, but Ladoja remained a formidable figure, consolidating his support through the Accord Party. Their rivalry defined much of the political tension in Oyo State during that period.

His political battle with Senator Abiola Ajimobi, who succeeded Akala as governor in 2011, was less about personal animosity and more about differing ideologies and approaches to governance. Ladoja criticized Ajimobi’s administration for its urban renewal projects, which displaced many residents, and for policies Ladoja believed neglected the grassroots. However, it was during Ajimobi’s tenure that Ladoja faced another significant challenge—the controversial Obaship reform saga.

Ajimobi’s administration initiated a controversial policy to review the traditional Obaship system in Ibadanland, elevating high chiefs to the status of kings. Ladoja, being a member of the Olubadan-in-Council, vocally opposed the move, citing it as an assault on Ibadan’s long-standing traditional hierarchy. The clash between Ajimobi and Ladoja reached a dramatic peak, with Ladoja even challenging the policy in court. His firm stance on preserving the sanctity of Ibadan’s traditional system endeared him to many, further solidifying his place as a custodian of cultural heritage. The legal battle stretched on for years, and Ladoja’s objections were vindicated when the courts ruled in his favor, reverting the changes.

The election of Seyi Makinde as governor in 2019 introduced a new phase in Ladoja’s political journey. Although Ladoja initially supported Makinde’s candidacy, their relationship soured after the election. Ladoja expressed disappointment with Makinde’s governance, accusing him of sidelining critical stakeholders and failing to maintain key political agreements. Despite these disagreements, Ladoja maintained his position as an elder statesman, offering advice and voicing his concerns about governance when necessary.

One of the most significant moments in Ladoja’s post-governorship life was the Obaship reform saga under Ajimobi’s administration. As a high-ranking member of the Olubadan-in-Council, Ladoja was deeply involved in the politics of Ibadan’s traditional institution. When Ajimobi moved to elevate several Ibadan chiefs to the status of Obas, Ladoja vehemently opposed the decision, calling it a violation of Ibadan’s age-old hierarchical structure.

Ladoja took the matter to court, seeking to preserve the traditional system that, in his view, maintained the unity and respect of the people. His legal victory in 2020, which overturned Ajimobi’s reforms, was a significant win for traditionalists and demonstrated Ladoja’s commitment to protecting Ibadan’s cultural heritage. His defense of the traditional system was seen as a defining moment in his role as a guardian of Ibadan’s legacy, positioning him as a protector of Yoruba customs in the face of modernization.

Ladoja’s life at 80 offers many lessons for politicians, business leaders, and citizens alike. One of the most enduring lessons is resilience. His political ordeal, from his impeachment to his battles with Akala, Ajimobi, and Makinde, demonstrated that adversity can be overcome with perseverance and a firm belief in justice.

Another key lesson is the importance of prioritizing the welfare of the people. Throughout his career, Ladoja emphasized the need for public servants to remain focused on policies that directly benefit the masses. His administration’s focus on education, infrastructure, and healthcare has left a lasting impact on Oyo State.

Finally, Ladoja’s life teaches the value of political pragmatism. While he never shied away from taking principled stands, he was also a master of compromise, understanding that politics is about negotiation and finding common ground for the greater good.

At 80, Rashidi Ladoja stands as a towering figure in Nigerian politics—a man whose life has been defined by service, resilience, and a commitment to justice. As we celebrate his milestone, we reflect not only on his contributions to Oyo State but also on the enduring lessons his journey offers for the future. His legacy reminds us that true leadership is not measured by the absence of challenges, but by the courage and wisdom with which those challenges are faced.