Ladoja Nominated in Absentia as 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland

T The Olubadan-in-Council has nominated Oba Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, following the demise of Oba Owolabi Olakulehin. The nomination was made during a Council meeting held at the New Palace, Oke-Aremo, Ibadan, on Monday, August 4.

Although Oba Ladoja was not present at the meeting, the nomination was unanimously endorsed by the beaded crown High Chiefs in attendance. The motion for his nomination was moved by the Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, and seconded by the Osi Olubadan, Oba Eddy Oyewole.

Oba Ajibola confirmed that the name of Oba Ladoja will be formally submitted to the Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, for ratification and approval.

Oba Ladoja, a former governor of Oyo State, is the most senior chief in the Olubadan traditional line and next in line according to the well-established rotational succession arrangement of the Ibadan Obaship system.

The nomination comes after the passing of Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who served as the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland. Oba Olakulehin, who was installed on July 12, 2024, died on July 7, 2025, at the age of 90, having spent just under a year on the throne. He had ascended the throne from the Military Line of succession.

Oba Ladoja’s nomination, if approved, will continue the age-old tradition of peaceful succession in Ibadanland, which alternates between the Civil and Military lines of the Olubadan Chieftaincy system.