Cynthia Ezegwu
Former Oyo State Governor, Senator Rashidi Ladoja, has been crowned the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland in a colourful traditional ceremony.
Ladoja received the crown on Friday at the Ose Meji Temple in Ibadan South-East Local Government Area, after being adorned with the symbolic Akoko leaf at the Labosinde Compound, Oja’ba. He is expected to be formally presented with the staff of office by Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, at Mapo Hall.
The new monarch succeeds Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, the 43rd Olubadan, who died on July 7, 2025.
The installation ceremony drew hundreds of residents and dignitaries, including the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade; the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Ọlaoye; former Ogun State governor, Ibikunle Amosun; and the Chief Imam of Ibadan.
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Security was tight at the event, with personnel from the Nigerian Army and operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) on ground to ensure order.
The Olubadan stool, renowned for its unique and orderly succession system, remains one of the most revered traditional institutions in Nigeria.