By Peter Omopo
Ibadan, July 7, 2025 — Following the passing of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, attention has shifted to the next in line to ascend the revered throne — former Oyo State Governor, High Chief Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, the Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland.
By the long-established and strictly hierarchical chieftaincy system unique to Ibadan, Ladoja is next in line for installation as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.
Brief Profile of the Olubadan-in-Waiting
Born on September 25, 1944, in Gambari, Ibadan, Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja is a seasoned businessman, politician, and statesman with decades of experience in both the private and public sectors.
Ladoja attended Olivet Baptist High School, Oyo, and later earned a degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Liège in Belgium. He began his career in the oil and gas industry, where he rose to prominent positions before venturing into politics.
He served as the Governor of Oyo State from 2003 to 2007, under the platform of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). His tenure was marked by political turbulence, including a controversial impeachment in January 2006, which was overturned by the courts, leading to his reinstatement in December 2006.
In recent years, Ladoja has remained a significant political figure in Oyo State. He joined the Zenith Labour Party (ZLP) in 2018, where he has continued to champion progressive causes.
Ladoja is married to Mrs. Bolatito Ladoja, and remains deeply connected to Ibadan’s traditional structures, having steadily climbed the ranks of the Olubadan chieftaincy system — a process that can take decades.
A New Chapter in Ibadan’s Royal History
With his impending ascension, Ladoja will become the first former executive governor to occupy the Olubadan stool, blending deep political experience with royal tradition. His expected coronation is already generating interest both within Ibadanland and across Nigeria, as many see it as a historic convergence of modern governance and ancient royalty.
Preparations are expected to commence shortly for the formal installation, pending the completion of traditional rites and official announcement by the Olubadan-in-Council.
