Senator Rashidi Ladoja, the Otun Olubadan of Ibadan, officially became a crowned Oba on Monday, August 12, 2024, receiving the beaded crown from the Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin.
The ceremonial event, which took place at the Olubadan’s palace in Oke-Aremo, Ibadan, marks a significant resolution to the long-standing resistance Ladoja had shown towards accepting the beaded crown.
The ceremony also featured the presentation of the staff of office and a certificate from the acting governor of Oyo State, Bayo Lawal.
The payment of these ceremonial symbols signifies the formal acknowledgment of Ladoja’s new title, “Oba Oju Opo,” or king-in-line, in the reformed chieftaincy system of Ibadan.
Acting Governor Lawal, in his address, emphasized the importance of these changes for the progress of both Ibadan and the state of Oyo. He noted that a stable and well-established monarchy in Ibadan could serve as a model for other Yoruba monarchies.
“The peace we now have in Ibadan will be a model for other Yoruba lands,” Lawal stated.
“The resolution of the beaded crown issue without external interference is a testament to the city’s ability to resolve its chieftaincy matters internally.”
The long-standing debate over the beaded crown had previously been a source of friction within the Ibadan chieftaincy system on one and the former governor and the state government.
However, the recent reforms and the acceptance of the crown by Ladoja have been hailed as a significant step toward resolving these disputes.
Senator Ladoja’s acceptance of the beaded crown came after a thorough explanation from Oba Olakulehin.
The Olubadan clarified that the title of Oba Oju Opo does not confer rulership over a specific domain but acknowledges Ladoja’s position in the line of succession to become the Olubadan of Ibadan land.
Ladoja shared his thoughts on the development, stating that his previous reluctance was due to concerns about the lack of clarity regarding his domain.
“I was hesitant because I needed to understand over what domain I would reign,” Ladoja explained.
“Now I understand that the title of Oba Oju Opo means that we are all in line to become Olubadan, and the question of domain is therefore resolved.”
In his remarks, Ladoja praised the Olubadan for addressing his concerns and expressed his gratitude for the resolution of the chieftaincy issues.
He also highlighted the resilience of the Ibadan people in resolving internal disputes without external intervention.
