Ibadan’s Historic Coronation of the 44th Olubadan
Ibadan, Oyo State, was filled with excitement on Friday as business mogul, engineer, former governor, and senator Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja was crowned as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadan. This significant event marked the transition from the reign of Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, the 43rd Olubadan, who passed away on July 7, 2025, after a year in power. Ladoja ascended the throne 81 days after the demise of his predecessor.
The coronation and presentation of the staff of office took place at Mapo Hall, a colonial-style city hall located on top of Mapo Hill in the Oyo State capital. Commissioned by Captain Ross in 1929 during the colonial era, Mapo Hall has been a venue for major political and social events in the city over the years. The hall is home to a mini museum, where relics of the chains used to hold tax evaders during the colonial period are displayed. Mapo Hill, the site of the hall, is one of the oldest parts of Ibadan, predominantly inhabited by the city’s indigenes.
Ladoja arrived at Mapo Hall wearing a white crown that was bestowed upon him at the Ose Meji Temple in Ibadan South-East Local Government Area. Prior to this, he had received the traditional Akoko leaf at the Labosinde Compound, Oja’ba, Ibadan.
The Official Coronation Ceremony
At exactly 3:06 pm, Governor Seyi Makinde presented the staff of office to Ladoja, officially marking his emergence as the 44th Olubadan. In his address, Makinde stated:
“In the exercise of the power conferred on me as the governor, I hereby present the staff of office to Oba, His Imperial Majesty, senator, governor, engineer, my Baba, Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja, Arusa 1st. This is confirmed as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland. I so present.”
Makinde later expressed pride in Ladoja’s coronation, noting that it had resolved challenges associated with Ibadan’s traditional institutions. He emphasized the importance of upholding traditions and ensuring a smooth succession process.
The Chieftaincy Ladder and Ladoja’s Journey
The Olubadan’s succession is governed by a well-defined chieftaincy ladder, unlike many other Yoruba monarchies where succession is typically hereditary. The process involves two main ruling lines: the Balogun (military) and Otun (civil) lines. The late Oba Olakulehin came from the military line, while Ladoja hailed from the Otun chieftaincy line.
Ladoja’s journey to the Olubadan throne began with his role as a Mogaji, the head of the extended family compound. In the 1980s, he was installed as the Mogaji of the Ladoja family of Arusa Compound, Isale-Osi, Ibadan. He became Jagun Olubadan on October 1, 1993, and was installed by the famous Olubadan Asanike. After his promotion to Jagun Olubadan, he gradually climbed the ranks, with each title carrying greater responsibility within Ibadan’s traditional administration. He eventually reached the Olubadan throne after climbing 22 steps.
A Call for Ibadan State
Following his coronation, Ladoja called on President Bola Tinubu to grant the wish of his people by creating Ibadan as an independent state out of the current Oyo State. He urged Tinubu to make Ibadan state a reality before 2027, stating that his people have the support of the National Assembly.
Ladoja also promised to serve his people diligently, focusing on job creation for youths and urban renewal. He emphasized his commitment to serving the people of Ibadan, Oyo State, and the Yoruba race.
Market Closure in Honor of the New Olubadan
Major markets across Ibadan were shut by traders in honor of the coronation of the 44th Olubadan. Traders suspended commercial activities to show respect for the new monarch. Only those selling drinks to Okada riders remained open. Similar scenarios were observed at Agodi Gate, Oje, Bere, and Bodija markets.
Babaloja- General of Oyo State, Asiwaju Yekeen Abass, directed all markets across the 11 local government areas of Ibadanland to suspend trading activities for the day. He encouraged traders to attend the coronation ceremony at Mapo Hall, stressing the importance of showing support and reverence for the new traditional ruler.
Festivities and Celebrations
The coronation witnessed a massive turnout of Ibadan indigenes and residents, with many organizing street parties to honor the monarch. From Bodija to Ring Road, Mokola to Oja’ba, and the surrounding axis, the city was filled with cultural displays, drumming, and processions. Colorful posters, banners, and giant billboards of different unions and associations bearing the portrait of Oba Ladoja adorned major streets and roundabouts.
Hotels across Ibadan were fully booked, with visitors from all walks of life coming in from across the country and beyond. The festive atmosphere turned the city into one grand canvas of celebration.
Presidential Remarks and Notable Attendees
President Bola Tinubu addressed the nation, stating that the economy is recovering from the crisis and thanked Nigerians for their perseverance. He described the economic hardship following some of his reforms as a pain from an economic surgery. Tinubu praised Ladoja as one of the rare gems to ascend the throne of his forefathers as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.
The coronation attracted several notable figures, including President Bola Tinubu, host governor Seyi Makinde, and governors from various states. Traditional rulers, former governors, and federal and state lawmakers were also present.
