Video: Olubadan-designate Ladoja returns to Ibadan

Abdullateef Fowewe

Former Oyo State Governor and Olubadan-designate, Rashidi Ladoja has made a triumphant return to Ibadan, greeted enthusiastically by his supporters.

Video link: Video: Olubadan-designate Ladoja returned to Ibadan

Ladoja, who also previously served as a senator, was welcomed at the Ibadan area of the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway, where a substantial crowd of loyalists accompanied his motorcade to his ancestral home in Isale-Osi.

His anticipated return had generated weeks of speculation among city residents and natives.

Since arriving, numerous visitors have flocked to his Ondo Street residence in Bodija to pay their respects and extend royal greetings.

Ladoja was recently selected by the Olubadan-in-Council as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.

His nomination was introduced by Balogun Olubadan, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, and supported by Osi Olubadan, Oba Eddy Oyewole, during a council meeting at the Oke-Aremo palace.

This announcement comes after the conclusion of the required 21-day mourning period for the late Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who passed away on July 7, 2025, following a year on the throne.