Olubadan-in-waiting: a closer look at Rashidi Ladoja

By Adejayan Gbenga –

In the heart of Ibadan, Nigeria’s largest indigenous city, history is once again on the cusp of unfolding — and at its center stands a man whose journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, former governor, seasoned businessman, and respected high chief, is poised to ascend the revered throne of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, following the passing of Oba Owolabi Olakulehin on July 7, 2025.

At 80, Ladoja is no stranger to power or public service. But this moment — the likely culmination of decades of civic, political, and traditional service — carries a deeper, more personal significance. As Otun Olubadan, the highest-ranking chief on the civil line of Ibadan’s unique succession system, he is now the heir apparent.

A Life Forged in Public and Private Leadership

Born on September 25, 1944, in Gambari village near Ibadan, Rashidi Ladoja’s rise began with education. From Ibadan Boys’ High School to Olivet Baptist High School, and finally to the University of Liège in Belgium, where he earned a degree in chemical engineering, Ladoja built a foundation that would span sectors and decades.

He returned to Nigeria and began his professional career at Total, before transitioning into private business and then politics. His political career peaked in 2003 when he was elected Governor of Oyo State under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). His tenure was disrupted in January 2006 by a controversial impeachment, which was later overturned by the Supreme Court. Reinstated in December of that year, he completed his term in May 2007 and has since remained a significant figure in the political landscape, moving through several parties before aligning with the Zenith Labour Party in 2018.

Royal Path and Political Crossroads

While politics defined much of Ladoja’s public life, his journey toward the throne began long before his foray into governance. Ibadan’s chieftaincy succession system — unique in its dual-line rotation between the civil and military ranks — has guided his traditional progression for decades.

In August 2024, after initial resistance, Ladoja accepted the beaded crown required by the revised Oyo State chieftaincy declaration, thereby qualifying for the Olubadan throne. This decision came after significant debate, sparked by the 2023 amendment mandating that only beaded-crown Obas could ascend as Olubadan.

Critics saw the law as politically charged — a move believed to target Ladoja for his opposition to Governor Seyi Makinde’s re-election. Ladoja, however, publicly downplayed the tension, telling a private Ibadan radio station: “By the grace of God, I will become Olubadan. My blood pressure has been stable; anyone God destined to become Olubadan will become Olubadan.”

A Throne Within Reach

Ibadan’s royal history stretches back over 170 years, built on a deeply respected tradition of merit-based ascension through the two ruling lines. With the civil line now due, and Ladoja standing atop it, all eyes turn to the Olubadan-in-Council and the kingmakers. Their formal endorsement is expected to come in the days ahead — a decision that will not only uphold tradition but also symbolically unite Ladoja’s dual legacies as a public servant and a custodian of culture.

As Ibadan prepares to welcome its 44th Olubadan, Rashidi Ladoja’s journey stands as a testament to resilience, service, and destiny. From the seat of political storms to the doorstep of royal heritage, he now readies himself to wear a crown many believe has long been within reach.