Oyo State former Governor Rashidi Ladoja has been nominated as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadan land.

Mr Ladoja, who served as the state governor from 2003 to 2006, was endorsed by the Olubadan-In-Council on Monday. 

His endorsement was announced during a meeting at the Olubadan Palace in Oke-Aremo, Ibadan North Local Government Area of Oyo State. The Balogun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Tajudeen Ajibola, presided over the meeting.

Announcing Mr Ladoja’s name as the next Olubadan, Mr Ajibola, backed by the Osi Olubadan, Eddy Oyewole, noted that the name will now be officially forwarded to Governor Seyi Makinde for endorsement. 

“We (members of the Olubadan-In-Council) have all signed and nominated Oba Rashidi Ladoja as the new Olubadan of Ibadanland.

“We will forward the resolutions of our meeting to our Governor, Seyi Makinde. He will now pick a date to present a staff of Office to the new Olubadan,” he announced. 

Mr Ajibola also noted that the council is confident that Mr Ladoja will bring a wealth of experience and wisdom to the throne. 

“His track record as a former governor and his deep connection with the community make him an ideal candidate to lead Ibadanland into a new era,” he said. 

However, he emphasised the importance of unity and progress, stating, “Under his (Ladoja) leadership, we anticipate a period of reconciliation and development for our people.”

He added, “The late Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, will be buried this week. So, this week is not feasible.

“He (Makinde) may decide to  pick three weeks, two weeks, or one week.”

Mr Ladoja’s nomination came after the demise of Oba Olakulehin, as the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland. 

The late Olakulehin,90, died barely one year on the throne.