The Olubadan-in-Council has officially nominated Oba Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, following the passing of the 43rd Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who joined his ancestors in July 2025.

The historic nomination was made on Monday, August 4, 2025, during a meeting of the Olubadan-in-Council held at the New Olubadan Palace, Oke-Aremo, Ibadan. Though Oba Ladoja was not physically present at the meeting, all other members of the Council, comprising the beaded crown High Chiefs of Ibadanland, were in attendance.

The Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, moved the motion for Oba Ladoja’s nomination, which was duly seconded by the Osi Olubadan, Oba Eddy Oyewole.

Speaking at the meeting, Oba Ajibola confirmed that the Council would transmit Oba Ladoja’s name to the Executive Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde, for formal approval and ratification in accordance with the customs and laws governing the Ibadan traditional institution.

Oba Ladoja, a former governor of Oyo State and currently the Otun Olubadan, is next in line to the throne by virtue of the rotational ascendancy system that defines the Ibadan Obaship. His elevation follows the Ogunmola line, as part of the dual-line succession process that alternates between the Otun and Balogun lines.

His nomination brings to culmination a long-anticipated transition in Ibadan’s traditional stool and reflects the established order of the city’s time-honored chieftaincy system.

Upon approval by Governor Makinde, Oba Rasidi Ladoja will ascend the throne as the 44th Olubadan, marking another chapter in the rich heritage of Ibadanland.