Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, a former governor of Oyo State, was on Friday installed as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland at the age of 81. His coronation marks the first time a former governor and senator will occupy the revered throne.
The installation capped a 32-year journey that began on October 1, 1993, when he was installed as Jagun Olubadan, the entry point into Ibadan’s unique chieftaincy system, which requires aspirants to climb 36 hierarchical steps before attaining the throne.
Reflecting on his path, Oba Ladoja described the process as bumpy and filled with trials. Born on September 25, 1944, he was no stranger to controversy, most notably in 2017 when he opposed the elevation of 21 Obas in Ibadan by then-Governor Abiola Ajimobi. He challenged the move in court to protect the structure and dignity of the Ibadan traditional institution.
His ascension is seen as the culmination of a career and life defined by strong principles, resilience, and dedication to Yoruba culture.
