"Ladoja: Next Olubadan Already Known -

On Friday, March 15, the former governor of Oyo State and the Osi Olubadan of Ibadanland, Chief Rashidi Ladoja, asserted that the people of Ibadan are already acquainted with the individual set to succeed Oba Lekan Balogun as the next Olubadan of Ibadanland.

Following a closed-door meeting of the Olubadan-in-Council held at the Alalubosa residence of Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, the Ibadan chief confirmed that the city has already identified its next Olubadan, eliminating any uncertainty.

Chief Ladoja stated, “The departed monarch (Oba Balogun) hailed from the Otun line, and the next monarch will emerge from the Balogun line. Therefore, the head of the Balogun line, known as the Balogun of Ibadanland, has been designated as the next Olubadan.” He continued, “We all understand that Ibadan follows a structured process; upon the demise of a king, the successor is already known and referred to as the designate.”

Elaborating further, Chief Ladoja emphasized that the purpose of the meeting was to formalize the succession process following the completion of the deceased’s burial rites. He also discussed arrangements for the dignified burial of the late monarch, stating, “As the deceased adhered to the Islamic faith, he will be buried today in accordance with Islamic customs at Aliwo, his ancestral home, by 4 pm.”

He added, “A lying-in-state will take place at Mapo hall from 12 pm to 1 pm before proceeding to Aliwo for burial. Following the burial, prayers will be offered for the departed monarch.” Regarding the coronation of the new Olubadan, Chief Ladoja mentioned that while no specific date has been set, it will be announced promptly once the burial rites are conclude