Seven key facts about ex-Governor Rashidi Ladoja, Ibadan’s next Olubadan

With the passing of Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, all eyes are now on former Oyo State Governor, Senator Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, who is poised to become the 44th Olubadan of Ibadan, the largest city in West Africa by landmass.

Though the formal announcement may be delayed until the official mourning period for the late monarch ends, Ladoja’s ascension to the revered throne is virtually assured, following the time-honoured rotational succession structure of the Ibadan chieftaincy system.

He is next in line from the Balogun lineage, the same path followed by the late Olakulehin.

“Our New Olubadan is Oba Ladoja”

A senior high chief in the Olubadan-in-Council, who spoke to Platforms Africa on condition of anonymity, confirmed Ladoja’s expected emergence, describing it as an “open secret.” “He is the next in line according to tradition,” the chief affirmed.

Oba Olakulehin, who ascended the throne on July 12, 2024, following the death of Oba Moshood Lekan Balogun, passed away on July 7, 2025. His brief but eventful reign will now be succeeded by one of Nigeria’s most prominent political figures.

As the ancient city of Ibadan prepares to crown a new monarch, here are seven essential facts to know about Oba-designate Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja:

1. Twice Governor – Elected, Impeached, Reinstated

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Rashidi Ladoja served as Governor of Oyo State between 2003 and 2006 under the platform of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). He was controversially impeached in January 2006 but was reinstated by the Supreme Court in December 2006 after nearly a year-long legal battle. His political career is marked by resilience and legal vindication.

2. Born and Bred in Ibadan

Born on September 25, 1944, in Gambari, a village near Ibadan, Ladoja has deep roots in the community he is now destined to lead as a traditional monarch.

3. Educated in Nigeria and Belgium

Ladoja’s academic journey began at Ibadan Boys High School and continued at Olivet Baptist High School. He later studied chemical engineering at the prestigious University of Liège in Belgium, graduating in 1972.

4. Corporate and Oil Industry Experience

After completing his education, he joined Total Nigeria, an oil company, where he worked for 13 years, rising through the ranks before transitioning into private business in 1985.

5. Diversified Business Portfolio

Ladoja is a seasoned entrepreneur with interests in sectors such as shipping, manufacturing, banking, agriculture, and transportation—an economic profile that aligns with Ibadan’s dynamic commercial heritage.

6. Senator During the Third Republic

He was elected to Nigeria’s Senate in 1993 during the ill-fated Third Republic and was affiliated with the United Nigeria Congress Party (UNCP) during General Sani Abacha’s transition programme.

7. Political Influence Beyond Office

Though he failed to secure the PDP’s ticket for a second term as governor, Ladoja remained influential in Oyo politics. He supported opposition candidates during the 2007 local government elections, which led to a sweep of the polls by the Action Congress (AC) and All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP), though his successors later sacked those elected officials.

A Monarch with a Political Resume

Ladoja’s political tenure was defined by his clashes with the late PDP godfather in Oyo State, Chief Lamidi Adedibu. Their dispute over control of state appointments led to Ladoja’s impeachment—a move that was later declared unconstitutional by the judiciary. His reinstatement drew national attention and elevated his profile as a resilient political figure.

Despite being sidelined within the PDP, Ladoja retained significant grassroots support and carved a reputation for standing his ground—traits that may now inform his rule as monarch in one of Nigeria’s most historically significant cities.

Awaiting Coronation

Until the mourning period for the late Oba Olakulehin is concluded, the formal announcement and coronation date for the 44th Olubadan may be delayed. However, tradition leaves little doubt about who will wear the crown next.

Ibadan’s chieftaincy succession is uniquely predictable, as it rotates between two lines—Otun and Balogun—based on seniority among high chiefs. Ladoja’s long-standing position within the Balogun line makes his ascension not just likely, but inevitable.

As the city awaits the official declaration, it prepares to welcome a new king whose journey from governor’s lodge to royal palace is unlike any in its modern history.