Celebrations Erupt in Ibadan as Ladoja Poised to Become Next Olubadan

The ancient city of Ibadan and Oyo State capital, is abuzz with celebration as loyalists, women, and traders thonged Oba Rashidi Ladoja’s Bodija residence.

The widespread jubilation is in anticipation of his ascension to the Olubadan throne.

The jubilant atmosphere followed anticipated announcement of Ladoja, the Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland as the next Olubadan following the demise of the Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin in the early hours of Monday.

Persecondnews had reported that the late monarch marked his 90th birthday about two days ago with President Bola Tinubu felicitating him.

Chants of praise, traditional drumming, and singing filled the air as supporters, traders, and political loyalists arrived in large numbers, many dancing and waving banners bearing Ladoja’s name.

For many in the crowd, this was more than a show of support — it was a celebration of what they described as “deserved honour.”

“This is not just about tradition — it’s about a man who has consistently looked out for the masses,” said Mrs. Funke Adeyemi, a trader from Dugbe Market.

“Senator Ladoja has helped us women traders over the years. As Olubadan, we know he will do even more.”

Alhaja Bisi Olayinka, another celebrant, expressed her delight at the prospect of Ladoja’s elevation.

“He is calm, wise, and loved. We’ve waited for this moment, and now that it’s near, we are rejoicing in advance,” she said, holding a miniature banner with Ladoja’s image.

Mr. Tunde Akinola, a youth leader from Mokola, described the former Oyo State governor as “a beacon of hope” in the city.

“This is a man we trust. Even outside politics, he has always been fair and considerate. Having him as Olubadan means stability and progress,” he said.

Under Ibadan’s unique chieftaincy system, the Otun Olubadan is the highest-ranking chief in the civil line, and by tradition, he is next in line to the throne.

Although there has been no official announcement from the Olubadan-in-Council, the crowd’s sheer enthusiasm suggests that Ibadan residents see Ladoja’s ascension as a matter of “when,” not “if.”

Ladoja, who turns 80 next year, has yet to make any formal comment on the development but was seen greeting well-wishers with humility.

One witness quoted him as saying simply, “Everything will happen in God’s time.”

Persecondnews recalls that Ladoja, a former Oyo State governor, had previously in press interviews, expressed the optimism that “by the grace of Allah, he would one day become the Olubadan.”