Oba Rasidi Ladoja officially crowned at Mapo Hall ceremony
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has officially presented the staff and certificate of office to Oba Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja, formally confirming him as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland. The presentation took place on Friday, September 26, 2025, during a well-attended ceremony held at Mapo Hall, a historic civic landmark in the heart of Ibadan.
The event, which began in the early afternoon, reached its peak at exactly 3:05 p.m., when Governor Makinde handed over the symbols of authority to the newly crowned monarch.
Makinde hails historic transition in Ibadan’s traditional leadership
Speaking at the ceremony, Governor Makinde described the coronation as a “momentous occasion” witnessed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, traditional rulers, political leaders, and thousands of proud sons and daughters of Ibadan.
“This is a momentous occasion in the presence of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in the presence of people, and in the presence of God,” the governor declared during the formal presentation.
Makinde, exercising the constitutional authority vested in his office, officially pronounced Oba Ladoja as the Olubadan of Ibadanland, acknowledging the new monarch’s vast experience as a former governor, senator, and engineer.
“In exercise of the power conferred on me as the Governor, I hereby present the staff of office to Oba, His Imperial Majesty, Senator, Governor, Engineer, my Baba, His Imperial Majesty, Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja, Arusa I,” Makinde said.
“This is in confirmation as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland. I so present.”
Oba Ladoja’s journey from public servant to traditional monarch
Oba Rasidi Ladoja is a well-known political figure in Nigeria, having previously served as the Governor of Oyo State from 2003 to 2007, and later as a senator. His emergence as Olubadan marks a rare transition from active politics to traditional leadership, a move many observers see as symbolic of his enduring influence and commitment to public service.
Ladoja ascended through the traditional chieftaincy ranks over several decades, in accordance with Ibadan’s unique rotational succession system, which has long been praised for its transparency and orderliness.
For more on Ibadan’s traditional system, see the Oyo State Government portal.
Tinubu, dignitaries, and Ibadan indigenes witness coronation
The coronation drew high-profile attendees, including President Bola Tinubu, governors from southwestern states, and a host of royal fathers and political heavyweights. Also present were community leaders, cultural groups, and members of the public from all walks of life.
The presence of the President underscored the national significance of the occasion, as Ibadan remains one of Nigeria’s most historically and culturally important cities.
Traditional dancers, drummers, and masquerades brought cultural vibrancy to the event, which also featured speeches celebrating Oba Ladoja’s political legacy and deep connection to Ibadanland.
Significance of the Olubadan stool
The Olubadan is the paramount traditional ruler of Ibadanland and holds a respected position among the Yoruba traditional institutions. Unlike many monarchies that rely on hereditary succession, Ibadan’s system is hierarchical and merit-based, involving a progression through the civil and military lines of chieftaincy.
This method of succession ensures experienced and time-tested individuals eventually ascend the throne, preserving both tradition and dignity.
Looking ahead: A reign of unity and progress
As the 44th Olubadan, Oba Rasidi Ladoja is expected to leverage his vast experience to promote peace, development, and cultural preservation in Ibadanland. His dual experience in modern governance and traditional structures uniquely positions him to serve as a bridge between history and progress.
In his expected first royal speech, Oba Ladoja is likely to address pressing local concerns including urban development, youth empowerment, and the preservation of Yoruba culture.
