Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja was crowned the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland today in a vibrant Yoruba traditional ceremony.
The 81-year-old former Oyo State Governor received the sacred Akoko leaves from Chief Waheed Popoola, the Afobaje of Ibadanland, at Labosinde Compound in Oja’ba, Ibadan South East, symbolizing his legitimacy as monarch. Amid loud ovations, he was crowned at the Ose Meji Temple as Arusa I.
Arriving in a white limousine with the Olubadan-in-Council, Ibadan warlords (Oloroso), and family, Oba Ladoja’s coronation drew dignitaries including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, who presented the staff of office at Mapo Hall, and the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III.
Others present were Senate President Godswill Akpabio, former Ogun Governor Gbenga Daniel, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Aliko Dangote, High Chief Aare Latoosa, and Chief Onikepo Akande. Tight security ensured a smooth event.
Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to President Tinubu, posted on X, “Here comes His Royal Majesty, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland,” sharing an image of the crowned king.
Ibadan’s markets and neighborhoods buzzed with excitement, with residents calling it a historic moment.
Oba Ladoja, styled Arusa I, pledged to foster peace and prosperity. “The Akoko leaves carry our ancestors’ trust, and I will lead Ibadan to greater heights,” he said.
Governor Makinde praised Ladoja’s ascent as a reflection of Ibadan’s orderly chieftaincy system, alternating between Otun and Balogun lines.
Ladoja, a former governor (2003–2007), was nominated in August by the Olubadan-in-Council following the death of Oba Owolabi Olakulehin on July 7, 2025.
The coronation underscores Ibadan’s enduring monarchical tradition, with Oba Ladoja’s leadership poised to blend heritage with progress.
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