By FORMER Governor of Oyo State, Rashidi Ladoja, has been officially crowned as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland in a colourful and historic ceremony.
The coronation began with Ladoja receiving the crown at the Ose Meji Temple in Ibadan South-East Local Government Area, after earlier being presented with the traditional Akoko leaf at the Labosinde Compound, Oja’ba.
The new monarch was later seated at the iconic Mapo Hall, where he is expected to be formally presented with the staff of office by Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde.
Ladoja ascended the revered throne following the passing of the 43rd Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, on 7 July 2025.
The installation attracted a distinguished gathering of traditional rulers, political leaders and religious figures. Among them were the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade; the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Ọlaoye; the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III; former Ogun State governor, Ibikunle Amosun; and the Chief Imam of Ibadan. Also present were former Kano State governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso, and former Osun State governor, Olagunsoye Oyinlola, who paid homage to the new king.
The event, attended by hundreds of residents adorned in vibrant attire, was heavily secured by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigerian Army to ensure order and safety.
The Olubadan stool remains one of the most respected traditional institutions in Yorubaland, renowned for its unique and orderly succession system.
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