Pius Nsabe
Ibadan, the heartbeat of Yorubaland, has once again written history as Rashidi Ladoja takes the revered seat as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland. His coronation at the iconic Mapo Hall on September 26, 2025, has been described as the most glamorous and widely attended Olubadan enthronement in modern history.
From the bustling Ring Road to Bodija, and from Mokola to Oja’ba, Ibadan has transformed into a grand festival ground. Streets are adorned with banners, giant billboards, cultural displays, and illuminated portraits of Rashidi Ladoja. The slogans, “Ibadan Pride, Yoruba Glory” and “A King for the People,” echo the mood of a city deeply connected to its new monarch.
The journey of Rashidi Ladoja to the Olubadan throne began more than three decades ago. In the 1980s, he was installed as Mogaji of the Ladoja family compound in Isale-Osi, Ibadan. His formal entry into the succession ladder came on October 1, 1993, when he became Jagun Olubadan under the reign of Oba Yesufu Asanike.
From that first step, Ladoja climbed steadily through the 22 rungs of the Ibadan chieftaincy hierarchy. By 2022, he had risen to become Otun Olubadan, the second-in-command and the most senior chief on the Egbe Agba line. This position made him the next in line to the throne. After the passing of Oba Lekan Balogun in March 2024 and the subsequent coronation of Oba Owolabi Olakulehin on July 12, 2024, the stage was set for Rashidi Ladoja to take his place as the 44th Olubadan once the succession path cleared.
Unlike most monarchs, Rashidi Ladoja brings with him a formidable political career. He was elected Senator in 1993, representing Ibadan South under the Social Democratic Party (SDP). A decade later, he became Governor of Oyo State (2003–2007), remembered for his grassroots politics, simplicity, and resilience during his impeachment saga in 2006, which was later overturned by the Supreme Court in December 2006. With this coronation, Rashidi Ladoja becomes the first South-Western traditional ruler to have been both an elected governor and a king, a rare blend of political royalty and Yoruba heritage.
The Ibadan succession system—celebrated as the most democratic monarchy in Africa—has always been close to Rashidi Ladoja’s heart. When the late Governor Abiola Ajimobi attempted to elevate 21 high chiefs to Obas in 2017, Ladoja stood firm, challenging the reform in court. He argued that Ibadan “does not need multiple kings,” defending the sanctity of the traditional ladder.
When Governor Seyi Makinde revived a similar reform in 2023–2024, requiring chiefs to accept beaded crowns, Ladoja initially resisted but later yielded in August 2024 after consultations with Ibadan elders. On August 12, 2024, he was formally crowned with a beaded crown by Oba Olakulehin, paving the way for his final ascension.
The coronation of Rashidi Ladoja is not only a traditional celebration but also a national event. Dignitaries including President Bola Tinubu, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and several serving and past governors have converged on Ibadan to honour him. For the people of Ibadan, however, this day is the fulfilment of a long-cherished dream.
Market women recall his fairness, artisans praise his humility, and civil servants remember his prompt salary payments as governor. To the ordinary people, Rashidi Ladoja has always been “one of us.”
For Rashidi Ladoja, this coronation is both destiny and testimony. Decades ago, he openly declared that he would one day wear the Olubadan crown. “Anyone God has destined to become Olubadan will become Olubadan, no matter the obstacles,” he once said.
Today, September 26, 2025, that prophecy has become reality. As the first Olubadan from the Arusa Compound of Isale-Osi, his story will inspire generations to come. His reign promises to blend tradition with modernity, positioning Ibadan not just as an ancient city but as a symbol of Yoruba unity and cultural pride.
Long Live Rashidi Ladoja! Long Live the Olubadan of Ibadanland!