I was preparing for work yesterday when my Ibadan man, Mallam Faisal called to inform me of the passing of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin.
Olakulehin died at the age of 90 during the ongoing 90th birthday and first anniversary coronation celebrations. He succeeded the late Oba Lekan Balogun.
Immediately Mallam delivered his message, he hastily added that former Governor and Senator, Ladoja is the Olubadan-elect.
He informed me of the passing of Kabiesi Olakulehin and joyfully mentioned his successor, typical Ibadan man ‘omo Agbotikuyo’ – one who celebrates at the news of death. I find that part of the Ibadan people extremely interesting as it defines the essence of life.
I also saw on X a video of drummers and well wishers already celebrating at the household of Senator Ladoja whose turn has come to mount the throne of his fore-bearers.
The stool of the Olubadan of Ibadanland stands as a remarkable anomaly within Nigeria’s traditional leadership landscape. Unlike many other kingdoms often plagued by succession disputes, the Olubadan throne boasts a meticulously structured and highly predictable system that virtually guarantees a seamless transfer of power.
This unique succession model operates through two distinct hierarchical lines: the Otun Olubadan (representing the civil chiefs) and the Balogun (representing the military chiefs).
Chiefs progress systematically through a series of ascending ranks within their respective lines. Ultimately, the most senior chief in either the Otun Olubadan or Balogun line becomes the prime candidate for the Olubadan throne.
This deeply ingrained system, a cornerstone of Ibadan’s rich history, is instrumental in minimising conflicts and ensuring that the most experienced and senior chief eventually ascends to the coveted position.
The Olubadan throne has a characteristic manner of emergence, one do not necessarily need to belong to a royal family to be the king, all it needs to be an Olubadan is to be an Ibadan man, so it’s safe to say every Ibadan man is an Obalola.
So if one finds his way into the pecking order, he’s assumed to be in line to be an Olubadan.
Ladoja’s Olubadan is one that the town hasn’t seen in its existence and history, a successful businessman, a senator who represented Ibadan and a former governor of the state, a rare breed.
He currently holds the esteemed position of Otun Olubadan, he occupies the highest rank within the civil line of the Olubadan chieftaincy system, making him the direct and highly anticipated successor to the throne following Oba Olakulehin’s demise.
An average Ibadan man likes Ladoja as evident in the outpouring of praise on his emergence due to his deep commitment to preserving Ibadan’s rich cultural heritage and actively fostering unity within the town.
I wish him a successful reign on the throne when he takes over and may the town continue to enjoy tremendous prosperity under his reign and beyond.
I condole with the Agbotikuyos on the demise of Kabiesi Olakulehin and congratulate them on Ladoja’s emergence.
Bagbansoro Uthman O
Twitter: @TheBagbansoro
Mail: Bagbansorouthman@gmail.com
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