By Hamilton Nwosu
The Olubadan-in-Council has nominated Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.
The decision was made during a closed-door meeting on Monday, August 4, 2025, at the Olubadan Palace in Oke-Aremo, Ibadan North Local Government Area of Oyo State.
The New Diplomat checks show that the decision was made despite Ladoja’s absence at the proceedings.
The New Diplomat reports that the nomination followed the passing of the 43rd Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, on July 7, 2025.
The close-door meeting, presided over by the Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, saw all beaded-crown High Chiefs in attendance. Oba Ajibola then moved the motion, nominating Ladoja as the Olu, which was seconded by Osi Olubadan, Oba Eddy Oyewole.
The council unanimously endorsed Ladoja, the highest-ranking chief in the Otun (civil) line, as the next Olubadan.
“All members of the Olubadan-in-Council have signed and endorsed Oba Rashidi Ladoja as the next Olubadan of Ibadanland,” Ajibola confirmed, noting that the resolution would be forwarded to Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde for approval.
The governor is expected to determine the date for a presentation of Staff of office to Ladoja.
Recall that Ladoja is a former governor of Oyo State (2003–2007). He has long been a prominent figure in Ibadan’s traditional and political spheres.
As the Otun Olubadan, a position he assumed on March 4, 2024, Ladoja is the topmost chief in the civil line, making him the natural successor under Ibadan’s rotational system, which alternates between the Otun and Balogun lines.
