By Peace Udugba
A former Governor of Oyo State, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has been officially crowned the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.
The coronation ceremony took place at the revered Ose Meji Temple in the Ibadan South-East Local Government Area.
Traditional rites began earlier when Oba Ladoja received the symbolic Akoko leafat the Labosinde Compound, Oja’ba, signifying his sacred transition to the throne.
He is expected to be formally presented with the staff and instrument of office by Governor Seyi Makinde at the historic Mapo Hall.
Governor Makinde reportedly cut short his annual leave to personally attend the coronation ceremony.
Oba Ladoja’s ascension follows the passing of the 43rd Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who joined his ancestors on July 7, 2025.
Having served as Governor of Oyo State from 2003 to 2007, Oba Ladoja rises to the revered stool after decades in the traditional hierarchy.
His enthronement marks a historic chapter in the rich cultural heritage of Ibadan, where the Olubadan is more than a monarch—he is a symbol of unity, continuity, and pride for the Yoruba people.
