Ladoja crowned 44th Olubadan
A former Governor of Oyo State, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has officially been crowned the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.
The crowning ceremony took place at the revered Ose Meji Temple, situated in the Ibadan South-East Local Government Area. Traditional rites began earlier when Ladoja received the symbolic Akoko leaf at the Labosinde Compound, Oja’ba, marking the 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 cut short his annual leave on Thursday to personally attend Oba Ladoja’s coronation.
The enthronement follows the passing of the 43rd Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who joined his ancestors on July 7, 2025. Ladoja, having served Oyo State as governor between 2003 and 2007, now ascends to the revered position after decades in the traditional hierarchy.
This transition marks a significant moment in the cultural heritage of Ibadan, where the Olubadan remains not just a royal title but a unifying symbol for the Yoruba people.
