Olubadan-designate Ladoja recalls 31-year journey to Ibadan throne, marked by patience, trials, and divine grace, as coronation preparations begin

Olubadan-designate Ladoja has described his path to Ibadan’s revered throne as a long and challenging journey that spanned more than three decades.

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Speaking at his Bodija residence on Monday, Oba Rashidi Ladoja — former Oyo State governor — reflected on his rise through Ibadan’s unique succession system, which requires aspirants to climb 36 steps, beginning with the title of Jagun Balogun.

Installed as Jagun Balogun on October 1, 1993, just before his election as Senator for Oyo South, Oba Ladoja said it had taken him more than 31 years of steady progression to become the Olubadan-designate.

“Many of those who began this journey with me are no longer alive,” he noted, listing figures such as the late MKO Abiola, Chief Lamidi Adedibu, Chief Dejo Raimi, former Governor Adebayo Alao-Akala, and Oba Lateef Adebimpe. Others, including Chief Jimoh Alliu and actress Orisabunmi, had also passed away along the way.

According to him, the journey has been defined by patience, perseverance, and divine grace. While Ibadan’s succession system is structured and predictable, he emphasized that timing remains in God’s hands.

Paying tribute to his predecessor, the late Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, Ladoja praised him as a monarch who upheld tradition with dignity. He said he received the news of Oba Olakulehin’s death with shock, never imagining destiny would call him to the throne so soon.

The Olubadan-designate also commiserated with the Olakulehin family, the Advisory Council, and the people of Ibadan. He expressed gratitude to the Council for nominating him as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland on August 4.

“I am fully back,” he declared, adding that he would begin consultations with Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, the Oluwo, the Araba of Ibadanland, and other traditional authorities to set the coronation process in motion.

Appealing for support, Oba Ladoja urged sons and daughters of Ibadan at home and abroad, as well as residents, to keep him in their prayers.

“I seek your prayers for God’s wisdom, knowledge, and understanding to guide me in the discharge of this sacred duty. It is a huge responsibility, and I pray for divine direction to lead Ibadanland with fairness, peace, and progress,” he said.

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Returning to Ibadan after a long absence, the Olubadan-designate steps into his new role as custodian of the city’s tradition, unity, and future.