The kingmakers otherwise called the Olubadan-in-Council has nominated Oba Rashidi Ladoja, a former Oyo State governor as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, following the demise of Oba Owolabi Olakulehin.
The decision was reached during a council meeting held on Monday at the New Palace, Oke-Aremo, Ibadan. Though Oba Ladoja was not present at the meeting, all the beaded crown High Chiefs were in attendance.
The motion for Ladoja’s nomination was moved by the Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, and seconded by the Osi Olubadan, Oba Eddy Oyewole.
Oba Ajibola disclosed that the Council would formally forward Ladoja’s name to Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde, for approval in line with established tradition.
Oba Ladoja, a former governor of Oyo State, is the most senior chief in the Olubadan traditional succession line and next in rank to ascend the throne under the Ibadan Obaship system. His nomination follows the transition of Oba Olakulehin, who became the 43rd Olubadan in 2024 from the Military Line.
The Ibadan traditional succession system follows a unique rotational hierarchy between the Civil and Military lines, with Ladoja’s emergence expected to maintain the lineage balance.