A combined photo of. Rashidi Ladoja and Late Oba Owolabi Olakulehin
By Shade DamiroÂ
Barring any last minute change, the former Governor of Oyo State, Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja will become the next Olubadan of Ibadanland following the death of the 43rd Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin.
Oba Olakulehin passed away in the early hours of Monday, July 7, 2025, at the age of 90, less than 12 months after his installation as monarch.
The late monarch, who was installed in July 2024 by Governor Seyi Makinde, succeeded Oba Dr. Mohood Lekan Balogun, Alli Okunmade II, who died in March 2024 after a brief illness.
According to tradition, the Olubadan throne alternates between two ruling lines: Egbe Agba (civil) and Balogun (military).
With the late Olakulehin ascending from the Balogun line, the next monarch is expected from the Egbe Agba line, where Ladoja is currently the most senior High Chief.
Ladoja, a former senator and governor of Oyo State between 2003 and 2007, has steadily climbed the traditional ladder over the years.
In September 2024, Rasheed Ladoja celebrated his 80th birthday.
In August 2024, Rasheed Ladoja was crowned as the Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland.
This put an end to the controversy over his acceptance of the chieftaincy title.
Ladoja was crowned by the immediate past Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, at a ceremony attended by the then-acting governor of the state, Bayo Lawal, who presented him with the staff and instrument of office, in the company of other top government officials.
The event, held at the Aafin Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oke Aremo, Ibadan, was the first ceremony of the Olubadan, preceded by a meeting of the members of the Olubadan-in-Council.
