The revered Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, reportedly passed away in the early hours of Monday, 7th July 2025.
His passing not only marks the end of a significant chapter in the city’s storied monarchy but also signals the commencement of a transition process guided by the long-established traditional hierarchy of succession within Ibadanland.
In accordance with this time-honoured order, the next in line to ascend the throne is the current Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, High Chief Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja. A former Governor of Oyo State, Chief Ladoja is widely respected both in political and traditional circles for his statesmanship and deep-rooted connection to the Ibadan chieftaincy system.
Subject to formal ratification by the Olubadan-in-Council and subsequent approval by the relevant authorities, Chief Ladoja is poised to become the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland—continuing the city’s legacy of orderly, peaceful, and lineage-based succession.
It will be recalled that in August 2024, while speaking on a live radio programme titled Agbami Oselu, High Chief Ladoja expressed a profound sense of destiny regarding his potential ascension. In his words, “By the grace of God, I will become Olubadan. God has been merciful to me. My blood pressure has remained stable.”
He further emphasised that divine will supersedes human interference, stating, “Anyone God has destined to become Olubadan will become Olubadan. No matter the obstacles placed in the path, if God ordains it, it will come to pass.”
Reflecting on his long-standing involvement in the chieftaincy progression, Ladoja also referenced political tensions from the past, notably during the administration of the late Governor Abiola Ajimobi. He asserted, “What I know is that it is the Olubadan who is meant to effect amendments to the system, not the governor.”
He concluded his remarks with a message of humility and service: “I will do what the people of Ibadan want. Everything is determined by God. We have had many who attained the ranks of Balogun or Otun Olubadan but never became Olubadan. It is all about destiny.”
With Chief Ladoja now positioned as the natural successor, all eyes turn to the traditional institutions for a formal announcement that will usher in a new era for the ancient city of Ibadan.
