Ibadanland is set to witness history as the Olubadan-designate, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, will officially ascend the throne as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland on Friday, September 26, 2025. The coronation ceremony, which is expected to attract dignitaries from across Nigeria and beyond, will take place at the historic Mapo Hall in the Oyo State capital.
Reliable sources confirmed that Governor Seyi Makinde has given formal approval for Ladoja’s installation after consultations with the Olubadan-In-Council and relevant traditional institutions. A government delegation was said to have met with the former governor and other chiefs at his Bodija residence on Wednesday to finalize arrangements ahead of the ceremony.
Speaking with The PUNCH Online, Adeola Oloko, media aide to the Olubadan-designate, confirmed the development, describing it as “a significant moment in the cultural and traditional history of Ibadanland.” He added that preparations were already underway to ensure a colorful and well-attended event befitting the status of the revered stool.
It will be recalled that Oba Ladoja, a former governor of Oyo State and respected statesman, had earlier met with the Ibadan kingmakers to formalize his nomination. His emergence follows established succession traditions that have long distinguished the Olubadan stool as one of the most orderly and respected in Nigeria’s chieftaincy system.
The forthcoming coronation is expected to reinforce Ibadan’s cultural heritage, with residents and well-wishers eagerly anticipating a celebration that will showcase the city’s unity, history, and prominence in Yoruba land.
