Next Friday, September 26, 2025, history will be written in golden letters as Ibadan crowns its new monarch. On that day, the revered throne of the Olúbàdàn will welcome its 44th custodian — none other than Ọba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, a man whose name has long resonated across the political, economic, and social life of Ọ̀yọ́ State and Nigeria.
A former Senator, former Governor, accomplished statesman, businessman, and community leader, Ladoja is not only an institution but a phenomenon. Having risen through the ranks of Ìbádàn’s unique chieftaincy system as Ọ̀tún Olúbàdàn, he now ascends the apex of the traditional hierarchy with the blessings of the Olúbàdàn-in-Council, following the transition of the late Ọba Owolabi Olakulehin on July 7, 2025. His coronation is eagerly awaited, not just as a cultural event, but as the dawn of a new era in Ọ̀yọ́ politics.
Recently, members of the G22 Renewed — an association championing power rotation in Ọ̀yọ́ State — alongside other distinguished leaders, paid a courtesy visit to the Olúbàdàn-designate at his Old Bodija residence. Among them were Dr. Ismail Adewusi, Mr. Adebayo Olagbenro, Chief Iyiola Oladokun, and Chief Isaac Koleoso. During that visit, Ọba Ladoja made a profound declaration that has since reverberated across the state:
He is not opposed to a non-Ibadan indigene becoming Governor of Ọ̀yọ́ State.
Drawing from history, the monarch cited examples such as Chief Obafemi Awolowo and Chief Bola Ige, non-Ibadan leaders who once held the highest offices in the Western Region and Old Ọ̀yọ́ State. He further revealed that during his time as Governor, he had envisioned a system of rotational governorship — a vision which, if realised, would have spared the state the current agitations for equity and inclusion.
The Olúbàdàn-designate, in his wisdom, advised other zones to leverage Ibadan’s demographic weight through negotiation and alliance-building, while emphasising that what truly matters is the quality, character, and competence of the candidate. In his words: “It is the quality of the person coming out to sit in that position that should matter to all of us. Other zones must give us somebody we can support, trust, and who will serve diligently.”
This pronouncement by Ọba Ladoja is nothing short of historic. It is an act of rare statesmanship — one that transcends regional or zonal pride and entrenched interests. It underscores that Ibadan’s greatness lies not just in numbers or influence, but in its wisdom, magnanimity, and vision for collective progress.
By opening the door for a non-Ìbádàn governor, the new Olúbàdàn has laid the foundation for unity among all zones — Ibadan, Òkèògùn, Ògbómọ̀ṣọ́, Ọ̀yọ́, and Ìbàràpá. His stance reassures every citizen that Ọ̀yọ̀ State belongs to all, and that no community is excluded from its highest seat of leadership.
Beyond the borders of Ọ̀yọ̀ State, this message resounds powerfully across Nigeria: that our politics must rise above ethnic confines, and that inclusiveness, merit, and fairness are the true pillars of democracy. In this bold move, Ìbádàn once again proves itself to be not just a city of warriors, but a builder of bridges and a beacon of hope for the entire nation.
As we count down to the coronation of His Imperial Majesty, Ọba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, our prayers remain with him. May his reign be long, peaceful, prosperous, and filled with wisdom that will uplift Ibadan, Ọ̀yọ́ State, and Nigeria at large.
Long live the 44th Olúbàdàn!
Long live Ọ̀yọ́ State!
Long live Nigeria!
Pst. Favour Adéwọyin,
Member, G22 Renewed / National Secretary, Ẹgbẹ́ Àjọṣepọ̀ Fún Ìtẹsiwájú Gbogbo Wa.
