Former Governor of Oyo State, Rashidi Ladoja, is set to receive a beaded crown from the Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, on Monday, August 12. This crowning event, which will take place at the inaugural meeting of the Olubadan-in-Council at the new Palace, Oke Aremo, Ibadan, is expected to begin at noon, according to PUNCH Online.
Ladoja, who holds the title of Otun Olubadan of Ibadan, has been confirmed for this ceremonial honour, marking a significant moment in the region’s traditional leadership. The source, as reported by Leadership, confirmed that Ladoja received an official letter about this ceremony on Friday evening, signifying his acceptance of the beaded crown.
This development follows a previous episode of controversy where Ladoja rejected the beaded crown when it was offered by the late Oba Lekan Balogun, who had also crowned other members of the Olubadan-in-Council. This refusal led to a legal tussle involving the Oyo State government and the Olubadan-in-Council, though the matter was eventually settled.
Despite earlier claims of discontent and legal disputes, Ladoja has since softened his stance. Last week, during a radio interview, he reversed his earlier rejection, announcing his willingness to don the beaded crown, a symbolic gesture now required to ascend the Olubadan throne.
The event, clearly not short of its share of drama and shifting allegiances, highlights the complex dance of tradition and politics in Oyo State.
