I Wasn’t Ready For The Throne” – Ladoja Opens Up On Olubadan Kingship Struggle

The nominated 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has revealed that the passing of the 43rd Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, deeply saddened him, as he felt unprepared to ascend the throne.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Speaking to journalists on Monday at his Ondo Street residence in Ibadan, Ladoja explained that though his journey to the revered stool began on October 1, 1993, he never expected to take over so soon.

According to him, he believed the late monarch would reign for at least five to ten years before his eventual transition.

“When I heard of his death, I was pained because I kept telling myself that I wasn’t ready for kingship,” Ladoja said. “But we thank God for sparing our lives. I started this journey in 1993, and I went back to pray where it all began. Many of those who were present then are no longer alive, including MKO Abiola, the President-elect at the time. May God grant them eternal rest.”

Ladoja, who has since returned to his ancestral hometown of Ibadan, expressed gratitude to God, the Olubadan-In-Council, and all who approved his nomination as the next Olubadan. He also prayed for wisdom, peace, and prosperity for the city.

He assured that once the state government announces the official coronation date, consultations will begin with key stakeholders, including traditional leaders and Governor Seyi Makinde.

“By God’s grace, very soon the government will announce the day we will be crowned. We will engage the Oluwo, the Araba, and the governor. I pray for peace in this land, and that there will be no more suffering in Ibadan,” he added.

During a visit to his family compound in Isale-Osi, within the Ibadan South East Local Government, Ladoja also cautioned miscreants to embrace peace or vacate the city, stressing that Ibadan must remain a land of unity and stability.