Ibadan witnessed a historic moment on Friday, September 26, as Senator Rasheed Adewolu Ladoja, a former governor of Oyo State, was crowned the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.

The colourful ceremony, held at the iconic Mapo Hall, drew a massive crowd, including traditional rulers, political leaders and cultural enthusiasts from across Nigeria.

Ladoja’s journey to the throne followed days of sacred rites and traditional prayers. Earlier in the week, the Afobaje of Ibadanland, Chief Waheed Popoola of the Labosinde Compound, placed the Akoko leaves on his head, a symbolic step in the process of becoming king. The ritual, witnessed at Oja’ba, sparked jubilation as residents hailed the new monarch.

Governor Seyi Makinde, who cut short his annual leave to attend the event, has formally presented Oba Ladoja with the staff and instrument of office at Mapo Hall.

Also in attendance was the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III, who arrived in Ibadan with a high-powered delegation. He was received by senior Oyo State officials and representatives of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs before proceeding to join the festivities.

Oba Ladoja ascended the throne following the passing of the 43rd Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, on July 7, 2025. His coronation has been described by many as the dawn of a new era for Ibadan.

Oba Ladoja cruised to his coronation in a Rolls-Royce.

Below are more pictures from the coronation of Oba Ladoja:

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