Oba Rashidi Ladoja, the former Governor of Oyo State, has been officially crowned by the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin. The ceremony, held in Ibadan saw Ladoja receive his lineage crown on Monday by His Excellency, Hon. Bayo Lawal, acting governor of the Oyo state, during a ceremony held at the palace of Olubadan, further cementing his significant role within the traditional hierarchy of the city.
The Olubadan’s formal endorsement of Oba Ladoja recognizes his substantial contributions to the community and his esteemed position within the lineage of Ibadan royalty.
Ladoja, the Otun Olubadan, is one of the 11 high chiefs in the succession line to Olakunlehin.Ladoja’s coronation comes about seven years after he refused the beaded crown which confers the “his royal majesty” title on him.
This new title adds a profound cultural dimension to Ladoja’s already notable legacy, intertwining his political influence with deep-rooted cultural significance in Ibadanland.
The event has been widely celebrated as a testament to the enduring traditions of the Yoruba people, with Oba Ladoja’s elevation seen as a significant step towards enhancing unity and preserving the cultural heritage of the region.
The coronation was marked by elaborate traditional rites and was attended by a host of dignitaries, community leaders, and local residents.
Recall in June 2023, Seyi Makinde, governor of Oyo, signed the chieftaincy amendment bill into law following its passage by the state house of assembly.
He subsequently approved the promotion of 11 Ibadan high chiefs to be crowned obas. Under the amended law, the 11 high chiefs, who form the Olubadan-in-council, were recognised as the traditional heads of the 11 LGAs in Ibadanland. All the high chiefs accepted the development except Ladoja who was absent at the coronation.