The Olubadan-designate, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, has assured indigenes of Ibadanland that the process of filling vacant chieftaincy positions under his reign will be swift, transparent, and devoid of unnecessary delays.
Ladoja, who is set to ascend the ancient throne following the demise of the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, made the disclosure on Monday in Lagos while receiving the Asipa Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Abiodun Kola-Daisi, at his residence.
In a statement issued by his spokesman, Adeola Oloko, the former Oyo State governor expressed profound respect for the late Olakulehin, describing him as a leader who served Ibadanland with unwavering dedication until his passing on July 7, 2025, at the age of 90, just days before his first coronation anniversary.
“Kabiyesi Olakulehin lived an impactful life and gave a good account of himself. He was a custodian of Ibadan’s cherished traditions and a rallying point for unity. In his honour, I assure our people that there would be no delay in filling every pending vacancy in the Olubadan chieftaincy line,” Ladoja affirmed.
The Olubadan-designate further emphasized that timely succession within the Ibadan traditional hierarchy is vital to maintaining stability, fostering continuity, and preserving the integrity of the city’s centuries-old rotational chieftaincy system. He stressed that under his leadership, appointments would strictly follow due process and established customs to avoid disputes that could destabilize the revered institution.
His remarks come amid renewed calls by stakeholders for a seamless transition in the wake of Oba Olakulehin’s death, with many traditional chiefs and community leaders warning against administrative bottlenecks that could create avoidable tension.
Analysts note that Ladoja’s statement is not only a reassurance to the people of Ibadanland but also a subtle response to concerns raised over previous delays in filling vacant chieftaincy positions, which sometimes sparked controversies within the royal council.
As Ibadan, the largest city in West Africa, prepares to witness the enthronement of a new monarch, expectations remain high that Ladoja’s tenure will blend his political experience, traditional wisdom, and commitment to reform, ensuring that the revered stool continues to serve as a symbol of unity and progress.
The official date of his coronation is expected to be announced soon by the Oyo State Government in conjunction with the Olubadan-in-Council.
