Balogun-Designate Speaks: Why Ladoja’s Coronation Will Be Historic And Crisis-Free

The Balogun of Ibadan-designate, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, has assured that the coronation of the Olubadan-designate, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, will be smooth and entirely free of disputes.

In an interview with Punch on Thursday, Ajibola explained that the circumstances surrounding Ladoja’s rise to the throne have fostered unity among the kingmakers—unlike the controversies that trailed the emergence of the late Oba Owolabi Olakulehin.

Ajibola, who served as Otun Balogun during Oba Olakulehin’s selection, recalled that he had opposed the process at the time, arguing that the late monarch needed more time to be fit for the throne.

“After the passage of Oba Lekan Balogun, the next in line, Oba Olakulehin, was nowhere to be found. His health status could not be confirmed, and his whereabouts remained unclear. That was my concern then,” Ajibola said.

He explained that his stance was countered by Oba Ladoja, who insisted that only a medical doctor could declare a person fit or unfit to ascend the throne.

The Balogun-designate noted that this time, there are no disputes because the succession process has been open, transparent, and indisputable.

“You see, during the emergence of Oba Olakulehin, the issue was not disagreement but timing. We felt it was too soon because Oba Lekan Balogun had just been buried. That was why there were differences,” he clarified.

Ajibola recounted how he later had to step in to assure the public that Oba Olakulehin was fine, even though none of the kingmakers could reach him for a long time.

He praised Oba Ladoja for ensuring open communication with the kingmakers, stressing that this unity has eliminated any chance of conflict.

“There is no problem at all. No dispute. It’s destined, and the throne has been created by God,” he said.

Ajibola also pointed out that another potential obstacle—the issue of the crown—had long been resolved, as Oba Ladoja had earlier agreed to accept the crown in line with the amended 1957 Chieftaincy Declaration.

“So why should we fight? We know it is his turn. After him, we already know the next, and the next after that. Ibadan remains peaceful, and we will continue to celebrate. Everyone is happy with the man who is about to become Olubadan,” Ajibola declared.

He further hailed Oba Ladoja’s political experience, noting that if combined with traditional leadership, it would usher in greater progress for Ibadan.

“Ibadan will be great. I am happy, Ibadan people are happy, and the whole world is happy because our succession line is clear and well-structured. I congratulate our Imperial Majesty, Oba Ladoja,” he added.

Ajibola emphasized that Ladoja’s emergence is a matter of divine destiny.

“What God has destined will surely happen. There is a foundation for everything, and this has been ordained,” he said.

Highlighting the uniqueness of the Olubadan stool, Ajibola described Ibadan as “a kingdom on its own,” blessed with a simple and dispute-free succession system.

“We don’t need an oracle to determine who the next Olubadan is. The process is clear, with only two ruling lines—the Otun line and the Balogun line. The Balogun line just concluded, so it is now the Otun line’s turn. That is very clear,” Ajibola concluded.