From Jagun to Olubadan: How I survived 31-year ordeal to claim throne - Ladoja
Olubadan-designate, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has described his path to the revered throne of Ibadanland as long, bumpy, and full of trials, spanning more than three decades.
Addressing hundreds of jubilant residents who thronged his Bodija residence in Ibadan on Monday to welcome him, the former Oyo State governor reflected on his rise through the city’s unique traditional succession system, which requires aspirants to climb 36 carefully arranged steps, beginning from the title of Jagun Balogun.
Oba Ladoja recalled that he was installed as Jagun Balogun on October 1, 1993, shortly before his election as Senator for Oyo South.
Since then, he said, it had taken him more than 31 years of steady progression to emerge as the Olubadan-designate.
“Many of those who began this journey with me are no longer alive,” he noted, listing the late MKO Abiola, Chief Lamidi Adedibu, Chief Dejo Raimi, former Governor Adebayo Alao-Akala, and Oba Lateef Adebimpe among the notable personalities present when he became Jagun. Others, including Chief Jimoh Alliu and actress Orisabunmi, have also since passed on.
“It has been a journey of patience, perseverance, and above all, the grace of God,” Oba Ladoja said.
He explained that while the Ibadan succession system is structured and predictable, the timing of ascension remains entirely in God’s hands.
Paying tribute to his predecessor, the late Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, Oba Ladoja described him as a monarch who upheld tradition with dignity. He said he received the news of Oba Olakulehin’s passing with shock, never imagining destiny would call him to the throne so soon.
He commiserated with the Olakulehin family, the Olubadan Advisory Council, and all Ibadan indigenes, while also expressing gratitude to the Advisory Council for nominating him as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland on August 4.
“I am fully back,” he assured, adding that he would begin consultations with the Oyo State Governor, the Oluwo, the Araba of Ibadanland, and other traditional authorities to set the process of his coronation in motion.
The Olubadan-designate appealed to sons and daughters of Ibadan, both at home and abroad, as well as all residents, to keep him in their prayers.
“I seek your prayers for God’s wisdom, knowledge, and understanding to guide me in the discharge of this sacred duty. It is a huge responsibility, and I pray for divine direction to lead Ibadanland with fairness, peace, and progress,” he said.
Oba Ladoja returned to Ibadan on Monday after a long absence, stepping into his new role as the custodian of Ibadan’s tradition and unity.
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