Former Oyo State Governor Rashidi Ladoja (80) is now first in line to ascend the ancient throne of Ibadan as the next Olubadan, following the passing of Oba Owolabi Olakulehin. As the current Otun Olubadan – the highest-ranking chief in Ibadan’s civil line – Ladoja’s path to kingship follows the city’s unique 170-year-old rotational system that alternates between military (Balogun) and civilian (Otun) leadership lines.
The veteran politician, who governed Oyo State from 2003-2007, has been preparing for this moment since officially receiving his ceremonial beaded crown in August 2024 – a controversial new requirement that nearly derailed his succession chances due to his initial refusal and political tensions with Governor Seyi Makinde. Born in 1944 in Gambari village near Ibadan, Ladoja brings rare combination of western education (Chemical Engineering degree from Belgium’s University of Liège), business acumen (former Total executive), and political experience to the traditional role.
His expected coronation would mark:
• First former governor to become Olubadan
• Culmination of decades moving up Ibadan’s chieftaincy ladder
• Test case for reformed succession rules implemented in 2024
The process now moves to Ibadan’s kingmakers, though Ladoja’s 2024 statement suggests confidence: “My blood pressure has been stable…anyone God destined to become Olubadan will become Olubadan.”
Ladoja’s Road to the Throne
✔ Current Title: Otun Olubadan (highest-ranking civil chief)
✔ Birth: September 25, 1944 in Gambari village, Ibadan
✔ Education:
- Ibadan Boys High School
- Olivet Baptist High School
- Chemical Engineering degree, University of Liège, Belgium
Political Journey & Controversies
• Governorship: Served 2003-2007 (PDP) with 18-month impeachment interruption
• 2023 Politics: Opposed Gov. Makinde’s re-election, fueling throne tensions
• Beaded Crown Mandate: Initially resisted 2024 coronation requirement before complying
The Throne Challenge
🔹 Succession System: Ibadan alternates between civil (Otun) and military (Balogun) lines
🔹 2024 Reform: New rule requires beaded crown for eligibility (seen as targeting Ladoja)
🔹 His Words: “My BP is stable…if God wills it, I’ll be Olubadan” (August 2024 radio interview)
Why This Matters
✅ Would be first ex-governor to become Olubadan
✅ Tests resilience of Ibadan’s 170-year succession tradition
✅ Could redefine monarchy’s role in modern Ibadan politics
