Oba Rashidi Ladoja has been crowned the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland in a grand ceremony held at the Ose Meji Temple in Ibadan South-East Local Government Area of Oyo State.
The coronation ceremony, attended by dignitaries including President Bola Tinubu and the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, marks a significant milestone in the history of Ibadanland.
Prior to the crowning, the new monarch had received the symbolic Akoko leaf at the Labosinde Compound in Oja’ba, an essential rite in the coronation process of an Olubadan.
Ladoja’s ascension to the throne follows the passing of the 43rd Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, on July 7, 2025.
The new Olubadan, a former governor of Oyo State, is expected to be formally presented with the staff and instrument of office by Governor Seyi Makinde at the historic Mapo Hall.
Governor Makinde reportedly cut short his annual leave to personally attend the coronation ceremony.
The event has drawn thousands of well-wishers, traditional rulers, politicians, scholars, and cultural enthusiasts to Ibadan. Security measures are in place, with over 2,000 security personnel deployed to ensure peace and orderliness during the ceremony.
Roads around Mapo Hall have been closed to traffic to facilitate smooth movement of dignitaries and guests.
