Ladoja weighs in on Alaafin-Ooni dispute, highlights Ibadan’s influence in shaping leadership

By Adejayan Gbenga –

Olubadan-designate, Oba Rasidi Ladoja, has weighed in on the ongoing dispute between the Alaafin of Oyo and the Ooni of Ife, while highlighting Ibadan’s crucial role in shaping the traditional leadership of Yorubaland. He suggested that without the city’s influence, Yoruba monarchs might have held the title of Emir instead of Oba.

Oba Ladoja made these remarks on Thursday while hosting the Olugbon of Orile-Igbon, Oba Francis Alao, and his wife during a courtesy visit at his Bodija residence in Ibadan. He emphasized that Ibadan’s historical significance is well-documented and should guide current governance and modernization efforts.

“The role of Ibadan in this matter is firmly established in history,” Oba Ladoja stated. “Without Ibadan’s influence, all Yoruba monarchs would likely bear the title ‘Emir’.”

He also noted that the city is already progressing with modernization, with traditional rulers—including Baales and Mogajis—expected to play vital roles in the development of Ibadan.

“We have begun the process of modernizing Ibadan,” the monarch explained. “All traditional rulers, including Baales and Mogajis, have important responsibilities in this effort.”

Regarding security issues, Oba Ladoja warned that Baales and Mogajis must reside within their domains and will be held accountable for any security lapses, signaling a move to end absentee leadership in Ibadan’s communities.

On the ongoing supremacy dispute between the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, and Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Ladoja attributed the conflict not to the monarchs themselves but to their supporters. “Neither the Ooni of Ife nor the Alaafin of Oyo promotes division, but their followers do,” he said, urging all to move past historical grievances.

Oba Ladoja also sought Oba Alao’s support in promoting unity among Yoruba monarchs, highlighting the Olugbon’s experience as valuable to strengthening cooperation and mutual respect within the traditional leadership.