E247mag reports: The ancient city of Ibadan erupted in pomp and pageantry on Friday as Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, fondly known as Arusa I, was officially crowned the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland. The grand coronation ceremony, held on September 26, 2025—just a day after the monarch’s 81st birthday—also featured the presentation of the staff of office by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde.
The event attracted traditional rulers, political leaders, and cultural enthusiasts from across Nigeria who joined thousands of indigenes to witness the historic occasion. Chants of “Kabiyesi o!” reverberated through the city, accompanied by traditional drumming, praise songs, and colorful cultural displays that reflected Ibadan’s rich heritage.
Oba Ladoja’s emergence follows the passing of his predecessor, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, the 43rd Olubadan, who reigned from 2024 until his death on July 7, 2025. His selection was confirmed by Governor Makinde on August 21, 2025, setting the stage for Friday’s coronation.
The Olubadan stool holds a unique place in Nigeria’s traditional system due to its rotational and merit-based ascension process. Unlike other Yoruba monarchies where succession is hereditary, the Ibadan throne follows a structured hierarchy in which senior chiefs progress through ranks from either the civil (Olubadan) line or the military (Balogun) line until one emerges as Olubadan. This system, praised for its fairness, has helped reduce succession disputes over the years.
Oba Ladoja is no stranger to leadership. A former governor of Oyo State (2003–2007), businessman, and respected statesman, his ascension is widely viewed as both a political and cultural milestone. Many indigenes of Ibadan have expressed optimism that his reign will foster peace, unity, and sustainable development across the city and beyond.
Timeline of Past Olubadans
The coronation of Oba Ladoja adds another chapter to the long history of Ibadan’s traditional leadership, which dates back to the early 19th century. Below is a timeline of recent Olubadans, highlighting the continuity of the stool:
Oba Samuel Odulana Odugade I (2007–2016)
Oba Saliu Akanmu Adetunji (2016–2022)
Oba Lekan Balogun (2022–2024)
Oba Owolabi Olakulehin (2024–2025)
Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja (2025–present)
For many Ibadan indigenes, the coronation is more than a royal celebration; it is a reaffirmation of their identity, heritage, and collective pride. As the city ushers in a new era under Arusa I, expectations are high that the new monarch will uphold tradition while guiding Ibadan toward greater unity and progress.