Olubadan Stool: 7 years after, Ladoja receives Ibadan ceremonial beaded crown

Rashidi Ladoja, the former governor of Oyo State and the Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, has been officially bestowed with the beaded crown, symbolizing his appointment to an Obaship title.

On Monday, 12th August, Oba Ladoja, a prominent figure in the succession line to the Olubadan of Ibadanland, was formally crowned by the Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin.

This significant event took place at the Aafin Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oke Aremo, Ibadan, and was attended by the acting state governor, Bayo Lawal, alongside other high-ranking government officials.

The coronation marked a notable development as Oba Ladoja, initially hesitant, finally embraced the beaded crown, an essential symbol for assuming the revered position of the Olúbàdàn of Ibadanland.

Notably, Oba Ladoja had previously refrained from accepting the beaded crown for over seven years, distinguishing himself from the ten other high chiefs in the Olubadan-in-Council, who had already been installed as beaded crown-wearing Obas.

The formal presentation of the staff and instrument of office to Oba Ladoja by Mr. Lawal underscored the fulfillment of a crucial condition for his eventual ascension to the esteemed Olubadan throne. This ceremonial act, presided over by Oba Olakulehin himself, stands as a testament to the adherence to traditional protocols and the continuity of leadership within the Ibadanland community.

At the time, he said his decision was made in response to pressure from Ibadan indigenes at home and abroad to facilitate his ascension to the throne.

Section 4 of the reviewed Olubadan Chieftaincy Declaration, which took effect from 17 July 2024, reads: “The person who may be proposed as candidate by the Line whose turn it is to fill a vacancy in the office of the Olubadan shall be the most senior beaded crown Oba in that line.”