The Olubadan-designate, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja described his journey to the throne of Olubadan as one of patience, perseverance and divine favour.
He also explained that the journey to the ancient throne was “bumpy and filled with trials” while attributing his emergence to be crowned as next Olubadan to the grace of God.
Speaking for the first time since his official nominationnas Olubadan-designate, the former governor of Oyo State reflected on the emotional and spiritual weight of his ascension following the death of his predecessor, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin.
“When I heard about the transition of Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, it hit me with a rude shock. I never imagined that destiny would call me at this moment,” Oba Ladoja said while addressing a crowd at his residence on Ondo Street, Bodija, Ibadan.
He paid tributes to the late Olubadan, Oba Olakulehin describing him as a traditional ruler who upheld Ibadan’s customs with dignity and honour.
Oba Ladoja extended condolences to the royal family, the Olubadan-in-Council, and the people of Ibadanland.
Recounting his path to the throne, Oba Ladoja noted that his journey began over three decades ago when he was installed as Jagun Balogun of Ibadanland on October 1, 1993.
Since then, Ladoja had steadily risen through 36 hierarchical steps of the Ibadan traditional chieftaincy system—one of the most structured in Yorubaland.
“It has been a journey of patience, perseverance, and divine favour. Many who started this journey with me are no longer alive,” he said emotionally.
Upon his return to Ibadan after a two-month trip out of the state, Oba Ladoja first visited his ancestral home in Isale-Osi, Ibadan South-West local government area, where his traditional journey began.
“I was born in 1944, and I’m now the 44th Olubadan. I believe it’s more than a coincidence—it’s destiny,” he said.
Oba Ladoja expressed appreciation to the Olubadan-in-Council for their unanimous approval of his nomination.
“If they hadn’t approved me, what could I have done? All 10 council members gave their support, and I’m thankful,” he said, pledging to foster stronger ties with the council moving forward.
He also disclosed plans to begin consultations with key stakeholders including the Oyo State Governor, the Oluwo, the Araba of Ibadan, and other traditional authorities as part of preparations for his coronation.
“I seek your prayers for wisdom and understanding. This is a sacred responsibility, and I trust God to guide me in leading Ibadanland with fairness, peace, and progress,” Ladoja appealed.
