Following the death of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, traditional palace drummers have moved to the Bodija residence of Oba Rashidi Ladoja, the Otun Olubadan and next in line to the throne.
The drummers’ relocation is widely regarded as a symbolic gesture of loyalty to the expected successor, in accordance with the established succession hierarchy of the Olubadan chieftaincy.
This tradition mirrors a similar event after the passing of Oba Lekan Balogun, when the same drummers transitioned from his Alarere residence to Oba Olakulehin’s home in Alalubosa.
Oba Ladoja, a former governor of Oyo State, is now awaiting formal nomination by the Olubadan-in-Council. Once approved, his name will be forwarded to the Oyo State Government for ratification and the presentation of the staff of office.
Born on September 25, 1944, Ladoja was elected governor in 2003 on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and assumed office on May 29 of that year.
Traditionally, the incoming Olubadan operates from his personal residence, which becomes the official palace upon ascension.
Ibadan’s unique succession system alternates between two chieftaincy lines—Otun and Balogun—through which eligible titleholders ascend to the throne.
Notably, on August 12, 2024, the late Oba Olakulehin formally presented the ceremonial beaded crown to Ladoja—a gesture marking a turning point, especially after Ladoja’s earlier rejection of the crown during the tenure of the late Governor Abiola Ajimobi.