10 Things to Know About new Olubadan, Oba Ladoja

Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja has been crowned as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.

The former Oyo State governor was officially installed on Friday, September 26, 2025. He succeeds the late Oba Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin, who passed away in July.

Ladoja’s emergence on the throne is regarded as a historic moment for Ibadan, Nigeria’s largest indigenous city. It also carries weight in the political space of Oyo State, given his long-standing influence.

Here are 10 key facts about the newly installed monarch.

1. Former governor of Oyo State
Ladoja governed Oyo State between 2003 and 2007 under the Peoples Democratic Party. His time in office came with achievements and also a dramatic impeachment, which was later nullified in court.

2. Elder statesman on the throne
He was born on September 25, 1944, and became Olubadan at 81 years old. His life combines politics, business, and traditional leadership experience.

3. Strong academic background
The monarch studied Chemical Engineering at the University of Liège in Belgium. He speaks several languages, including French, and had a successful career before joining politics.

4. Business interests
Before stepping into public service, he worked with companies like Total Nigeria. He later ran his own businesses, especially in oil, gas, and shipping.

5. Long climb through Ibadan’s royal ladder
Ladoja joined the Olubadan succession line more than three decades ago. He steadily rose through the traditional titles of Jagun Olubadan, Osi Olubadan, and Otun Olubadan before finally becoming Olubadan in 2025.

6. Defender of Ibadan culture
In 2017, he opposed the attempt by late Governor Abiola Ajimobi to crown multiple kings in Ibadan. Ladoja took the matter to court and won, preserving the structure of the city’s monarchy.

7. Calm and diplomatic
He is known for being moderate, approachable, and able to build bridges across political divides. Many believe he will use these qualities to stabilise both Ibadan and Oyo State politics.

8. Successor to Oba Olakulehin
Oba Ladoja stepped into the role after the death of the 43rd Olubadan, Oba Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin, who passed away in July 2025.

9. Political relevance even as monarch
Unlike many traditional rulers, Ladoja remains an influential political voice in Oyo and Nigeria at large. His views still shape debates within the PDP and beyond.

10. Symbol of tradition and modernity
His story blends Ibadan’s deep-rooted culture with the realities of politics and business. As Olubadan, he carries both the weight of history and the expectations of the future.