Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, born on 25 September 1944, is now on the cusp of one of the most prestigious traditional honours in Ibadan — ascending the throne as the Olubadan of Ibadanland. His path to this revered position has been anything but conventional, traversing engineering, business, politics, and a long, dutiful journey through the ranks of the Ibadan chieftaincy system. Here’s how a chemical engineer became the 44ᵗʰ Olubadan-designate — a tale of patience, resilience, and tradition.
Early Life and Education
Ladoja was born in Gambari village near Ibadan to Alhaji Aruna Ladoja, a cocoa trader, and Alhaja Haleemat Ladoja. He attended Ibadan Boys High School from 1958 to 1963, before proceeding to Olivet Baptist High School in Oyo. He later travelled to Europe for his tertiary education, studying Chemical Engineering at the University of Liège in Belgium between 1966 and 1972.
Professional and Business Career
Following his graduation, Ladoja began his professional career with Total Nigeria, where he worked in both engineering and managerial roles for over a decade. In 1985, he transitioned into the private sector, building a diverse business portfolio that spanned shipping, agriculture, banking, transportation, and manufacturing.
By the early 2000s, he had become a prominent figure in Nigeria’s corporate world, serving on the boards of several institutions and earning a reputation as a technocrat with deep business acumen.
Political Career
Ladoja ventured into politics during Nigeria’s Third Republic and was elected as a Senator in 1993. A decade later, he became Governor of Oyo State in 2003 under the platform of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
His tenure was marked by controversy — in January 2006, he was impeached by the State House of Assembly but was reinstated later that year following a court ruling. He completed his term in 2007 and remained politically active afterward, contesting for office under various platforms including Accord Party and Zenith Labour Party.
Climbing the Traditional Ladder
The Olubadan stool is unlike any other in Nigeria — succession follows a strict and well-structured order through two parallel lines: the civil line (Egbe Agba) and the military line (Balogun).
Ladoja began his traditional journey as a Mogaji (family head), before rising steadily through the ranks: Jagun, Ashipa, and so on. By March 2024, he attained the high-ranking position of Otun Olubadan, the most senior chief on the civil line — positioning him next in line for the Olubadan throne.
His ascension required acceptance of a beaded crown, following reforms to the Oyo State Chieftaincy Law. Initially reluctant, Ladoja eventually accepted the title in August 2024, clearing the path for his succession.
When the 43ᵗʰ Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, passed away in July 2025, Ladoja was officially nominated by the Olubadan-in-Council. The Oyo State Government ratified the nomination, and his coronation was scheduled for 26 September 2025.
Legacy, Character and Expectations
Ladoja’s elevation is historic: he is the first former Governor of Oyo State to become the Olubadan. His career is marked by perseverance through political storms, legal battles, and a commitment to public service.
His personality is often described as disciplined, reserved, principled, and highly strategic. His time in office as governor, though turbulent, left a mark on infrastructure and governance in Oyo State.
Despite debates over the chieftaincy law reforms, many believe that Ladoja’s acceptance of the beaded crown showed flexibility and statesmanship — embracing tradition while adapting to modern realities.
The Road Ahead
Ibadan stands at a cultural and historical crossroads. With its rapidly growing urban population and influence in southwestern Nigeria, the city requires a monarch who understands both tradition and modern governance.
Ladoja, with his background in science, business, politics, and culture, is uniquely positioned to play that role. As Olubadan, he is expected to mediate between tradition and progress, honour ancestral customs, and engage meaningfully with contemporary challenges.
Conclusion
The life of Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja reflects the power of adaptability, patience, and service. From a small village in Gambari to Europe’s lecture halls, to Nigeria’s political battlefield and now Ibadan’s most sacred stool, Ladoja’s journey is emblematic of a life shaped by duty and transformation.
As he prepares to be crowned the 44ᵗʰ Olubadan of Ibadanland, the city — and indeed the Yoruba people — await a reign that promises to blend the wisdom of the old with the insight of a modern statesman.
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