The death of Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, crowned Olubadan of Ibadanland in July 2024, has set in motion the succession of Rasheed Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan. Olakulehin’s coronation was a grand affair at Mapo Hall, with Governor Seyi Makinde handing over the staff of office amid a gathering of Nigeria’s most influential figures, including President Bola Tinubu.
Olakulehin was notable for being the second Olubadan to reside in the newly inaugurated palace on Oke-Aremo, signaling a modernization of the traditional institution. Previously, the Olubadan’s private home served as the palace.
The Olubadan throne rotates between two principal chieftaincy lines: Balogun and Otun. Olakulehin was from the Balogun line, having waited 38 years after becoming Jagun Balogun to ascend. Now, the succession shifts to the Otun line, with Rasheed Ladoja as the highest-ranking chief.
Ladoja, born in 1944 in Ibadan, has a rich educational background including a chemical engineering degree from the University of Liège, Belgium. His political career includes serving as a senator in 1993 and governor of Oyo State from 2003 to 2007. His administration faced political challenges, including impeachment and legal battles, but he remained a significant figure in Oyo politics. After stepping back from active politics, Ladoja accepted the ceremonial beaded crown in August 2024, paving the way for his traditional leadership.