Ex-Oyo Gov Rashidi Ladoja Crowned As 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland
History was made on Friday, September 26, 2025, as former Oyo State Governor, Senator Rashidi Ladoja, was officially crowned the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.
The coronation rites began with the conferment of the traditional Akoko leaf at the Labosinde Compound, Oja’ba, and later at the Ose Meji Temple in Ibadan South-East Local Government Area, where Ladoja received the crown in line with tradition.
The event reached its climax at the historic Mapo Hall, where Governor Seyi Makinde is expected to present the newly installed monarch with the official staff of office.
The installation ceremony attracted dignitaries from across Nigeria, including the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III, and the Chief Imam of Ibadan.
Also in attendance were prominent political figures such as former Ogun State governor Ibikunle Amosun, former Kano State governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, and former Osun State governor Olagunsoye Oyinlola, who all paid homage to the new king.
The ceremony was a colourful display of Ibadan tradition, as hundreds of residents and guests thronged Mapo Hall in vibrant attires to witness the historic moment. Security was visibly tight, with personnel of the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigerian Army stationed across strategic points to ensure a peaceful event.
Oba Ladoja ascended the Olubadan throne following the passage of the 43rd Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, on July 7, 2025. The Olubadan stool remains one of the most respected in Yoruba land for its unique succession system that eliminates disputes over ascension.
