BREAKING: Historic Moment as Ladoja Crowned 44th Olubadan, Awaits Staff of Office with Joy and Pride -

A former Governor of Oyo State, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has officially been crowned the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.

He was crowned at the Ose Meji Temple in Ibadan South-East Local Government Area of the state.

Ladoja, who had earlier received the traditional Akoko leaf at the Labosinde Compound, Oja’ba, Ibadan, is expected to be formally presented with the staff and instrument of office by Governor Seyi Makinde at the historic Mapo Hall.

Governor Makinde cut short his annual leave on Thursday to personally attend Oba Ladoja’s coronation.

It will be recalled that Ladoja became Olubadan-designate following the passing of the 43rd Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who joined his ancestors on Monday, July 7, 2025.

Former Ogun State Governor Gbenga Daniel was among the early arrivals at the venue of the coronation of Oba Rashidi Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland on Friday.

Daniel, who arrived around 8:15 am, joined other dignitaries already seated for the historic ceremony, which will also feature the official presentation of the staff of office to the new monarch.

A heavy security presence was observed as early as 7:30 am.

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Personnel of the Nigerian Army, State Security Service, Nigeria Police, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Western Nigeria Security Network, codenamed Operation Amotekun, Fire Service, Federal Road Safety Corps, Oyo State Road Traffic Management, and other agencies mounted strategic positions, especially along Mopo Road in Ibadan, Oyo State.

While some residents struggled to gain access, many others stood by the barricades in anticipation of the grand event.

Ahead of the ceremony, a statue of Oba Ladoja was unveiled at the venue, drawing admiration from guests and indigenes alike.

Ladoja’s Background

Ladoja was born on September 25, 1944, in Gambari, a rural village near Ogbomoso, Oyo State. He attended Ibadan Boys High School, where he excelled in academics and later taught briefly.

He attended Olivet Heights, Oyo, for his Higher School Certificate programme, after winning a scholarship based on outstanding performance in entrance exams.