Ladoja, former governor set to become 44th Olubadan following Olakulehin’s death

Rashidi Ladoja, a former governor of Oyo State is set to become the Olubadan of Ibadan, following the death of the holder of the throne, Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin on Monday.

Ladoja, is the current Otun Olubadan and would become the 44th, Olubadan, being the next in succession for the ancient town’s old royal crown.

Olakulehin passed away at age 90 in the early hours of Monday, 7 July 2025, just two days after celebrating his birthday and one year on the throne.

His reign, though brief, followed the established order of the city’s monarchy when he was presented the staff of office by Governor Seyi Makinde in July 2024. With his transition, attention has swiftly turned to his natural successor.

By the rules of Ibadan’s unique traditional chieftaincy system—one based on a dual-line rotational model between the civil and military lines—Ladoja, who has steadily risen through the civil line, now stands as the most senior high chief eligible for the throne.

Unlike other monarchies in Nigeria where kingship often follows hereditary lines, the Olubadan title follows a laddered seniority system, which has long been credited with reducing succession disputes.

Read also: Olubadan of Ibadan Oba Olakulehin dies at 90

Ladoja’s journey to the apex of the traditional hierarchy spans several decades. Despite his active political career, including his tenure as Oyo State governor from 2003 to 2007, he remained deeply rooted in Ibadan’s royal system.

He progressed patiently through the ranks, combining civic service with traditional duty, and earning widespread respect from both camps.

In a 2024 radio interview on Agbami Oselu, Ladoja had spoken candidly about his path to the throne, attributing the process to divine will rather than human orchestration. “By the grace of God, I will become Olubadan”, Ladoja said.

God has been merciful to me,” he added. He acknowledged that the chieftaincy process transcends politics, stating, “Anyone God has destined to become Olubadan will become Olubadan. No matter the obstacles placed in the path, if God ordains it, it will come to pass.”

As Otun Olubadan, Ladoja currently occupies the highest position in the civil line of succession. Following tradition, his elevation now awaits formal ratification by the Olubadan-in-Council, which comprises the senior chiefs of the city. Once consensus is reached and the vacancy formally declared, the governor’s endorsement will pave the way for the coronation.

According to reports, the Olubadan-in-Council indicate that discussions are already underway to finalise Ladoja’s nomination. If approved by the Oyo State Executive Council and Governor Makinde, he will receive the staff of office as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.

His anticipated ascension is already generating wide interest, marking what many have described as a rare convergence of political and traditional authority in one figure. Ladoja would be the first Olubadan to have previously served as a state governor, symbolising a new chapter in the city’s royal history.

The Olubadan stool remains one of the most respected traditional titles in Nigeria, symbolising continuity, cultural heritage, and unity among the Yoruba people. With the throne poised for a new occupant, Ibadan prepares to witness yet another historic moment in its storied monarchy.