Without Ibadan, Yoruba Obas Would Have Become Emirs, Says Ladoja

Oba Rasidi Ladoja, has reaffirmed the historical and cultural significance of Ibadan in shaping Yoruba traditional leadership, asserting that without the city’s influence, the monarchs of Yorubaland might today have borne the title of “Emir” rather than “Oba.” Speaking during a courtesy visit by the Olugbon of Orile-Igbon, Oba Francis Alao, at his Bodija residence in Ibadan, Oba Ladoja emphasized that history has long documented the pivotal role of Ibadan in the preservation of Yoruba monarchical structures. “The position of Ibadan on this matter is well documented in history. Without the influence of Ibadan, the traditional title of the entire Obas in Yoruba land would have been ‘Emir’,” he stated. Oba Ladoja further stressed that the current focus should shift towards modernizing the remnants of the former Ibadan Empire, ensuring that traditional institutions remain relevant in contemporary governance. He urged all traditional rulers, including Baales and Mogajis, to take active roles in this transformation, emphasizing the need for responsible leadership at the grassroots level. In a move aimed at enhancing security and accountability, Oba Ladoja declared that all Baales and Mogajis must reside within their respective domains. He warned that those who fail to do so would be held accountable for security lapses in their communities, effectively ending the era of absentee traditional leaders in Ibadan. Oba Ladoja also addressed the ongoing supremacy dispute between the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, and the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade. While acknowledging the tensions between the two prominent Yoruba monarchs, he attributed the conflict to the actions and statements of their supporters rather than the rulers themselves. He appealed for unity among Yoruba traditional leaders and called on Oba Alao for support, citing his wealth of experience in traditional governance. The Olubadan-designate is set to be crowned as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadan on September 26, 2025, succeeding the late Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who passed away in July of the same year. His ascension is widely anticipated as a milestone in the history of Ibadan and a reaffirmation of the city’s enduring influence on Yoruba culture and leadership.