Oba Rashidi Ladoja, a former Governor of Oyo State, has ascended the throne as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.
His coronation took place at the revered Ose Meji Temple, located in the Ibadan South-East Local Government Area. Before this, he received the symbolic Akoko leaf, an essential rite of passage, at the Labosinde Compound in Oja’ba, marking his traditional induction.
The final ceremonial honour, the official presentation of the staff and instrument of office, will be conducted by Governor Seyi Makinde at the Mapo Hall, sealing Ladoja’s transition into his royal role.
Governor Makinde made an early return from his scheduled leave to personally attend and supervise the coronation of Oba Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.
At the Oyo State House of Assembly’s plenary session held on Thursday, Deputy Speaker Muhammad Abiodun Fadeyi, standing in for Speaker Adebo Ogundoyin, formally read and acknowledged the governor’s letter of resumption.
In the correspondence, Governor Makinde explained that although his leave was originally set from August 29 to September 29, 2025, the profound cultural importance of the Olubadan’s coronation compelled him to end his vacation early and resume official duties.
“I shall resume duty tomorrow, 26th September 2025, and hereby assume the full functions of the office of Governor of Oyo State,” the letter read in part.
The governor also thanked his deputy, Barr. Bayo Lawal, for effectively serving as acting governor in his absence, and announced that he would now resume his substantive duties as deputy governor.
