Former Governor Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja, born in 1944, was officially crowned the 44th Olubadan of Ibadan land, marking a moment of symbolism, patience, and culmination.
Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja was born on September 25, 1944, in Gambari, Ibadan. He studied chemical engineering at the University of Liège, Belgium. He built a successful career as an executive at Total Nigeria and later established a vast business empire spanning oil, shipping, and banking.
He also served as a Senator representing Oyo South (1992–1993) and, most notably, as the Governor of Oyo State from 2003 to 2007. His gubernatorial tenure was marked by dramatic political turbulence, including a controversial impeachment that was eventually declared null and void by the Supreme Court, a political vindication that forged his reputation as an unshakeable figure.
Oba Ladoja brings an unprecedented pedigree to the Olubadan throne, making history as the first elected governor in the South-West of Nigeria to ascend to such a paramount traditional stool
In Ibadan, Olubadan stool follows a rotational, merit-based succession system, which alternates between two chieftaincy lines (Civil-Otun and Military-Balogun), and chiefs rise through ranks over decades.
Ladoja, now 81, steadily rose through the civil line of chieftaincy, ascending ages and positions patiently until the throne became vacant. His political career as the governor added another layer of leadership experience to his story.
The coronation, held at Mapo Hall on September 26, 2025, was a colourful celebration of Ibadan’s rich cultural heritage. Nigeria’s elite, Including the President, Governors, and major traditional rulers gathered as Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde handed Oba Ladoja the staff of office, cementing his place in history.
Governor Seyi Makinde, praised the new king, stating that Oba Ladoja’s patience, discipline, and humility perfectly demonstrate the city’s succession process. He expressed confidence that the reign of the 44th Olubadan would usher in lasting peace and greater progress for Ibadanland.
For many indigenes, the symmetry of the number ’44’ is not a mere coincidence but a divine sign, a whispered prophecy finally realized. It is seen as a powerful endorsement of his reign, suggesting a life meticulously prepared by fate for this one, singular role.
By: Idris Olayinka