Coronation Of Ladoja As 44th Olubadan Kick Starts As traditional Akoko Leaves Placed On His Head

Ahead of his coronation of Oba Rashidi Ladoja as Olubadan of Ibadanland, the Afobaje of Ibadanland, Chief Waheed Popoola of the Labosinde Compound, Oja’ba, in the Ibadan South East Local Government Area of Oyo State on Friday placed the Akoko leaves his head.
In attendance were the High Chief of Ibadanland, Aare Latoosa; Chief Onikepo Akande; and others.
The ceremony is in preparation for his move to the Ose Meji House, where he will be crowned as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, shortly after leaving Labosinde Compound.
Ladoja becomes Olubadan designate following the passing of the 43rd Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who joined his ancestors on Monday, July 7, 2025.
In attendance were the High Chief of Ibadanland, Aare Latoosa; Chief Onikepo Akande; and others.
Former Ogun State Governor Gbenga Daniel and senator Ibikunle Amosun, also former governor of Ogun State were the early arrivals at the venue of the coronation white attire.
Daniel, who arrived around 8:15 am, joined other dignitaries already seated for the historic ceremony, which will also feature the official presentation of the staff of office to the new monarch.
Personnel of the Nigerian Army, State Security Service, Nigeria Police, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Western Nigeria Security Network, codenamed Operation Amotekun, Fire Service, Federal Road Safety Corps, Oyo State Road Traffic Management, and other agencies mounted strategic positions, especially along Mopo Road in Ibadan, Oyo State provided security cover for the august ceremony.
Ladoja, a former governor of Oyo State and respected statesman, will today ascend the throne as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, marking a new chapter in the history of the ancient city.
Ladoja was born on September 25, 1944, in Gambari, a rural village near Ogbomoso, Oyo State. He attended Ibadan Boys High School, where he excelled in academics and later taught briefly.
He attended Olivet Heights, Oyo, for his Higher School Certificate programme, after winning a scholarship based on outstanding performance in entrance exams.