The Olubadan-in-Council has nominated former Oyo State Governor, Senator Rashidi Ladoja, as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.

The decision was reached during a meeting held at the Oke-Aremo palace of the Olubadan, where the Balogun Olubadan, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, formally moved the nomination. It was seconded by the Osi Olubadan, Oba Eddy Oyewole. Oba Ajibola announced that all members of the council had endorsed Ladoja’s nomination.

With the council’s unanimous support, Ladoja’s name will now be forwarded to Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, for formal ratification and the scheduling of the coronation ceremony. At the event, Ladoja will be presented with the Staff and Certificate of Office, officially installing him as the next Olubadan.

The nomination comes following the conclusion of the 21-day mourning period for the late Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who passed away on July 7, 2025, after one year on the throne. Olakulehin himself had succeeded Oba Dr. Mohood Lekan Balogun, Alli Okunmade II, the 42nd Olubadan.

Senator Rashidi Ladoja, a prominent political and traditional figure, now stands poised to ascend the ancient throne of Ibadanland, continuing a storied lineage of leadership in one of Nigeria’s most historic cities.