By Tunji Oladejo
Oba Senator Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, would be bestowed with an honorary degree of Doctor of Science, DSc. Public Administration (honoris causa), by Lead City University, Ibadan (LCUI), at its 18th Convocation and the Award of Honorary Degrees on Wednesday, 3 December, 2025, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to society. He is being celebrated for his remarkable achievements. This esteemed Nigerian leader is a shining example of distinction, renowned for his accomplishments as a successful entrepreneur, businessman, quiet serial social investor, visionary leader and accomplished politician. As a distinguished Chemical Engineer, former Governor of Oyo State, and revered traditional ruler, Oba Ladoja’s impact resonates far beyond Oyo State. His outstanding contributions to public administration, management, business, philanthropy, education, healthcare, community services, and cultural heritage have left a lasting legacy, earning him widespread respect and admiration.
His Imperial Majesty, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, was born on 25 September, 1944, in Gambari village near Ogbomoso, Oyo State, to Pa Yunusa Olayiwola and Madam Halimat Sadia Ladoja. His family has its ancestral homestead in Arusa Compound, Isale Osi, in the present Ibadan Southwest Local Government, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria.
A brilliant mind, the young Ladoja received his elementary education at the Progressive Day School, Aladorin, Ibadan, between 1950 and 1956, laying the foundation for a lifetime of academic excellence. Thereafter, he attended Ibadan Boys’ High School, Oke Bola, Ibadan, between 1958 and 1963, where he showed flashes of brilliance as a secondary school student, achieving a Grade 1 in his West African School Certificate Examinations.
Ladoja’s academic prowess earned him admission to Olivet Baptist High School, Oyo, in 1964, where he came first in the Advanced Level admission examinations. Despite financial and logistics constraints, he eventually joined the School, and the School’s Principal, Mr Lafinhan, recognising his exceptional talent, ensured he was accommodated. At Olivet Heights, Ladoja studied A Level Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics and Additional Mathematics. His outstanding performance led to a scholarship to study Chemical Engineering at the University of Liège, Belgium, in 1966. He graduated with a distinction in 1972, a proof of his diligence and dedication.
Upon completing his university education, Ladoja joined Total Nigeria, an oil company, where he worked in different capacities for 13 years, applying the skills and knowledge he had acquired. Oba Ladoja’s early years are a shining example of academic excellence, perseverance and dedication, setting the stage for his future successes in politics, business and community service.
Oba Ladoja’s entrepreneurial journey took a significant turn in 1985, when he voluntarily left Total Nigeria, where he had worked for 13 years, to venture into private business. His business interests span multiple sectors, including shipping, manufacturing, banking, agriculture and transportation. One of his notable business affiliations was as a Director of Crystal Bank, which later merged with Standard Trust Bank (STB) and eventually teamed up with United Bank for Africa (UBA). He also held directorship positions in REAL Shippings, REAL Oil, and KARLANDER Nigeria Limited. These business ventures have contributed to his reputation as a seasoned entrepreneur and business leader. Oba Ladoja’s experience in the private sector has undoubtedly prepared him for his future roles, including his ascension to the throne as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, this year.
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Oba Ladoja’s ascension to the Olubadan throne is a testimony to his dedication, perseverance and commitment to serving his community. His journey began when he was appointed Mogaji of the Arusa family, Isale Osi, Ibadan, in the present Ibadan Southwest Local Government, and he later became Jagun Olubadan on October 1, 1993, under the late Oba Yesufu Oloyede Asanike at a remarkable ceremony attended by notable Nigerians, including the presumed winner of the June 12, 1993 Presidential Election, the late Bashorun M.K.O. Abiola, GCFR. This marked the beginning of a remarkable climb through the chieftaincy ranks, culminating in his coronation as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland on September 26, 2025. Oba Ladoja’s path to the throne has been long and winding, with stops as Osi Olubadan and Otun Olubadan, showcasing his growth and contributions to Ibadan’s traditional and political landscape.
Oba Ladoja’s foray into politics began in 1992, when he was elected Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria on the platform of the Social Democratic Party (SDP). This was during the tumultuous transition to the civil rule programme led by Ibrahim Babangida. His tenure was cut short by the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election, which led to his self-exile along with others who fought for the restoration of democracy. This period was, indeed, a challenging time in Nigerian politics, marked by widespread protests and unrest. The annulment of the election, widely regarded as one of the fairest in Nigeria’s history, was a significant setback for the country’s democratic journey. Oba Ladoja’s experience during this time has undoubtedly shaped his leadership style and commitment to democratic values.
Oba Ladoja’s return to Nigeria in 1995 marked a significant turning point in his political career. He joined the United Nigeria Congress Party (UNCP) and leveraged the platform to contest and win a seat in the Constitutional Conference, Abuja, during General Sani Abacha’s transition programme. This experience provided him with valuable insights into national politics and governance. The Constitutional Conference, convened by Abacha in 1994, aimed to discuss Nigeria’s future governance structure. However, it was marred by controversy, with some groups boycotting the event, citing a lack of autonomy and manipulation by the military government. Ladoja’s participation in the Conference demonstrates his commitment to Nigeria’s democratic development. His subsequent roles, including Senator and Governor of Oyo State, showcase his leadership abilities and dedication to public service.
Oba Ladoja was elected the Governor of Oyo State in 2003 under the platform of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). His administration implemented significant education reforms, including the 30 pupils per class policy, massive teacher recruitment, the establishment of more schools and the prompt payment of salaries to workers. These efforts yielded impressive results, with Oyo State schools excelling in externally moderated examinations. His focus on Total Eradication of Guinea Worm (TEGO) and zero tolerance for corruption earned him widespread acclaim. However, his tenure was cut short in January 2006 when he was ‘impeached’ as the Oyo State Governor. The ‘impeachment’ was overturned in November 2006 by the Appeal Court sitting in Ibadan, and the Supreme Court upheld the decision. Consequently, Oba Ladoja was reinstated as the Oyo State Governor on December 12, 2006, and served out his term until 2007. Ladoja’s legacy as Governor demonstrates his commitment to public service and good governance.
Oba Ladoja’s political journey continued after his tenure as the Governor. In 2007, he supported the candidacy of the late Senator Abiola Ajimobi of the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) for the gubernatorial election, marking a significant shift in his political alliances. In 2011, Ladoja joined the Accord Party, a grassroots mass movement that became a major force in Oyo State politics. The party’s impressive performance in the elections, winning 7 State House of Assembly and 4 National Assembly seats, sent shockwaves through the State’s political circle. This marked a significant turning point in Oyo State politics, as the Accord Party emerged as a formidable third force. Ladoja’s leadership and strategic alliances played a crucial role in the party’s success, cementing his position as a key player in Oyo State politics.
In 2019, Oba Ladoja played a pivotal role in Oyo State politics, leading a coalition of opposition figures seeking change from the late Governor Abiola Ajimobi’s two-term tenure. As the rallying point, Ladoja helped forge an alliance that propelled Governor Seyi Makinde, FNSE, to victory in his first term. Ladoja’s leadership and strategic influence were instrumental in uniting diverse opposition groups, demonstrating his ability to build consensus and drive change. His support for Makinde marked a significant shift in the State’s politics.
Oba Ladoja’s retirement from active politics has marked a new chapter in his life, one focused on family and community service. He now dedicates his time to nurturing his family bonds and contributing to causes close to his heart, while continuing to inspire many with his dedication to public service and cultural heritage. As a revered traditional leader, Oba Ladoja’s commitment to preserving Ibadan’s rich cultural traditions and promoting community development remains unwavering. His legacy as a politician, Governor, and now Olubadan, serves as a model for leadership and public service, inspiring future generations to emulate his values of integrity, humility and dedication.
In conclusion, Oba Ladoja, the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, is being honoured for his remarkable achievements and dedication to community service and cultural heritage. As a highly educated individual, fluent in multiple languages including French, he has demonstrated exceptional leadership skills, marked by patience, integrity and service.
His impressive journey, spanning politics, business and traditional leadership, has equipped him with decades of experience, which he now brings to the throne of the Olubadan of Ibadanland. Oba Ladoja’s commitment to Ibadan’s traditional institution is unshakeable, and his calm demeanour, moderation, diplomacy and ability to navigate complex situations have earned him immense respect.
The good and progressive people of Ibadanland thank the Lead City University, Ibadan LCUI) for conferring upon Oba Senator Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja,, Arusa 1, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, the honorary degree of Doctor of Science, D.Sc. Public Administration (honoris causa) in recognition of his remarkable contributions to society, This prestigious award acknowledges his dedication to community service, cultural heritage and public administration, as well as his exemplary leadership and commitment to Ibadan’s traditional institution.
Congratulations, Kabiyesi!
Tunji Oladejo, JP, mnipr, who writes from the University of Ibadan, is the Chairman of The Progressive Forum, Ibadan (TPFI) via oladejo65@gmail.com.
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