The residence of Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, is currently filled with royal drummers and trumpeters.
As the Otun Olubadan, the highest-ranking chief in the civil line, Ladoja is next in line to ascend the throne following the death of Oba Owolabi Olakulehin on July 7, 2025.
Under Ibadan’s unique rotational system of traditional leadership, Ladoja holds the top position in the succession line.
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This structured system had ensured stability and minimised disputes in Ibadan’s traditional rulership.
The succession process is designed to ensure a smooth transition of power, and Ladoja’s ascension aligns with this long-standing tradition.
As Otun Olubadan, Ladoja has been an active and influential member of the Olubadan-in-Council, showcasing his leadership and commitment to the traditional institution.
His tenure as a former governor of Oyo State also provides him with a broader governance perspective that could enrich the stool of the Olubadan.
Should he ascend the throne, the Balogun line would be next in line to produce the succeeding Olubadan, maintaining the alternating pattern that defines Ibadan’s royal succession system.
