As tradition unfolds in Ibadan, we bring you verified details on the man who is set to ascend the throne of the Olubadan.

Meet the Next Olubadan of Ibadanland — Oba Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja

As Ibadan mourns the passing of His Imperial Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin (Ige Olakulehin I), tradition makes no room for confusion — the next Olubadan is known, respected, and ready:

High Chief Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja, the Otun Olubadan, now Olubadan-designate, is set to ascend the throne as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.

HIS BACKGROUND

• Full Name: Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja

• Date of Birth: September 25, 1944

• Hometown: Gambari, Ibadan

• Education:

• Ibadan Boys’ High School

• Olivet Baptist High School

• BSc. Chemical Engineering – University of Liège, Belgium (1966–1972)

• Profession: Engineer, businessman, politician, and statesman

HIS POLITICAL CAREER

🔹 Senator (1993):

Ladoja was elected into the Senate under the Social Democratic Party during the Third Republic — a tenure cut short by political instability.

🔹 Governor of Oyo State (2003–2007):

• Elected under PDP in 2003

• Impeached in 2006, but reinstated by the Supreme Court in December 2006

• Completed his tenure in May 2007

🔹 Party Leader:

After leaving PDP, Ladoja played pivotal roles in several parties:

• Founded Accord Party and contested the 2011 & 2015 governorship elections

• Joined ADC in 2018

• Later moved to Zenith Labour Party (ZLP) in 2019

He remains one of the most influential political voices in Oyo State’s modern history.

HIS ROYAL JOURNEY

• Chieftaincy Title: Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland

• As part of the civil line to the throne, he climbed the traditional ladder with patience and dignity.

• Despite earlier resistance to wearing a beaded crown, Ladoja accepted his full royal status in 2024, paving the way for today’s smooth succession.

With the demise of Oba Balogun, High Chief Ladoja becomes the first former Oyo governor to ascend the ancient stool of Olubadan — marking a rare fusion of political legacy and royal tradition.

IN HIS OWN WORDS:

“By the grace of God, I will become Olubadan. Anyone God destined to become Olubadan will become Olubadan.”

– High Chief Ladoja, Fresh FM Interview (August 2024)

WHAT’S NEXT?

• Olubadan-in-Council will formally ratify his succession

• Oyo State Government will issue staff of office

• Coronation rites will follow, including Ita Baale and other traditional steps

Ibadanland is not only preparing for a new king, but for a new era.

With experience in governance, business, and culture, Oba Ladoja’s reign is expected to bring wisdom, stability, and unity.