Former Oyo State Governor, Senator Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, is expected to ascend the throne as the next Olubadan of Ibadanland following the d3ath of the 43rd Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin
Oba Olakulehin, who passed away in the early hours of Monday, July 7, 2025, at the age of 90, reigned for less than a year after being crowned in July 2024 by Governor Seyi Makinde. He succeeded Oba Dr. Mohood Lekan Balogun (Alli Okunmade II), who d!ed in March 2024.
Ibadan’s succession system follows a unique tradition where the Olubadan stool rotates between two ruling lines — Egbe Agba (civil) and Balogun (military). With Olakulehin coming from the Balogun line, the next monarch is to emerge from the Egbe Agba line, where Ladoja currently serves as the most senior High Chief.
Ladoja, who governed Oyo State from 2003 to 2007 and also served as a senator, has patiently risen through the traditional ranks. In August 2024, he was formally crowned the Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, a development that ended long-standing controversy over his acceptance of the title.
Just a month later, in September 2024, Ladoja marked his 80th birthday — a milestone that underscored his seniority and preparedness for the revered Olubadan throne.
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