Ladoja Crowned 44th Olubadan In Colourful Ibadan Ceremony

The former governor of Oyo State, Rashidi Ladoja, has officially been crowned as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland in a colourful coronation ceremony that drew dignitaries and residents from across the country.

Ladoja received the crown at the Ose Meji Temple in Ibadan South-East Local Government Area, shortly after being handed the traditional Akoko leaf at the Labosinde Compound, Oja’ba, Ibadan.

The new monarch was later seated at the historic Mapo Hall in Ibadan on September 26, 2025, where he is also expected to be formally presented with the staff of office by Governor Seyi Makinde.

Ladoja’s ascension follows the passing of the 43rd Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who died on July 7, 2025.

The installation ceremony was attended by hundreds of well-wishers and residents of Ibadan, many of whom were dressed in vibrant traditional attire.

Among the dignitaries present were the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade; the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Ọlaoye; and the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III.

Also in attendance were the Chief Imam of Ibadan, former Ogun State governor Ibikunle Amosun, former Kano State governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, and former Osun State governor Olagunsoye Oyinlola, who all paid homage to the new king.

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To ensure a hitch-free coronation, there was heavy deployment of security personnel, including operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigerian Army.

The Olubadan stool is highly respected for its unique and orderly succession system, which distinguishes it from other traditional institutions across Nigeria.