6 Key Facts About New Olubadan Oba Rashidi Oladoja
- Former Oyo governor Rashidi Ladoja becomes the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland after a royal journey spanning over three decades
- The 81-year-old monarch is a chemical engineer, successful businessman, and seasoned politician with a rich multilingual background
- Ladoja once fought a legal battle to protect Ibadan’s succession system, defeating a government-backed reform to preserve tradition
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The ancient city of Ibadan has entered a new era with the installation of Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.
The coronation of the respected politician and businessman brings together decades of public service, royal tradition, and personal achievement.
Source: Facebook
Here are six important things to know about the new monarch.
1. Former Governor of Oyo State
Rashidi Ladoja served as the Governor of Oyo State from 2003 to 2007 under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party. His time in office was eventful, marked by policy reforms and a dramatic impeachment that was later overturned by the courts.
2. Ascension at the Age of 81
Born on September 25, 1944, Oba Ladoja climbed to the top of Ibadan’s traditional hierarchy in 2025, becoming Olubadan at 81 years old. His advanced age and wide-ranging experience are expected to influence the way he approaches leadership.
Source: Facebook
3. Strong Academic Background
Before entering politics, Ladoja built an impressive educational profile. He earned a degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Liège in Belgium and is fluent in several languages, including French.
4. Established Business Career
The new Olubadan is also a seasoned entrepreneur. He worked with international companies such as Total Nigeria and later expanded into the oil, gas, and shipping industries, becoming one of Ibadan’s most prominent businessmen.
5. Decades-Long Royal Journey
Ladoja’s rise to the throne was neither sudden nor accidental. Over more than 30 years, he moved through the traditional ranks, holding titles such as Jagun Olubadan, Osi Olubadan, and Otun Olubadan before finally attaining the ultimate title of Olubadan.
6. Protector of Ibadan Tradition
In 2017, Ladoja successfully opposed a government-backed plan to create multiple kingships in Ibadan. He challenged the reform in court and won, ensuring that the city’s historic succession process remained intact.
Olubadan’s new stylish car captures attention
Earlier, Legit.ng reported that a sleek new automobile belonging to Oba Rasheed Ladoja stole the spotlight on Friday as Ibadan celebrated his coronation as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.
A photo of the former Oyo State governor’s latest exotic ride circulated widely on social media, drawing admiration and sparking conversations about the monarch’s polished taste.
Many described the car as a perfect symbol of the prestige surrounding his ascent to one of Nigeria’s most influential traditional thrones. The coronation itself added a powerful backdrop to the trending image. Mapo Hall, the historic venue for the event, overflowed with jubilant crowds who gathered to witness Ladoja’s formal installation.
Tinubu to attend Ladoja’s grand coronation
Earlier, Legit.ng reported that Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, is set to host a landmark celebration as former governor Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja becomes the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.
The coronation will take place on Friday, September 26, at the historic Mapo Hall grounds with President Bola Tinubu confirmed to attend alongside prominent Yoruba monarchs, political leaders, business figures, and thousands of indigenes
Source: Legit.ng
