Despite his absence, members of the Olubadan-in-Council yesterday nominated the next-in-line, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.
The nomination followed an earlier declaration of the stool vacant by the Council members during a meeting held at the Olubadan Palace, Oke Aremo, Ibadan.
He was nominated by the Balogun Olubadan, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola and seconded by Osi Olubadan, Oba Eddy Oyewole, at a meeting held at Oke-Aremo Palace of Olubadan.
Ladoja was absent at the meeting. The former governor had been outside the state before the death of Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, his predecessor.
The Nation reports that the Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Ajibola, told The Nation last week that the absence of the former governor would not prevent the Council from going ahead with its plans and proceedings to declare the stool vacant and subsequently deliberate on a nomination for the next occupier.
A source, who preferred anonymity, said efforts had been made earlier to find out if the former governor was interested in occupying the stool, for formality sake, prior to the meeting.
It was gathered that Oba Ladoja had expressed interest in the stool, besides that he is the next-in-line.
But, the report could not be confirmed from any member of the Council.
Addressing reporters shortly after the meeting, Oba Ajibola said members of the Olubadan-in-council had signed Ladoja’s nomination, adding that his name would be forwarded to Governor Seyi Maki.nde, who would ratify it and choose a date for presentation of coronation, staff of office and certificate of office to Ladoja.
Ladoja, who will turn 81 on September 25, is from the civil line, specifically the Otun Olubadan line, which is one of the two prominent chieftaincy lines in Ibadan’s traditional leadership system.
The Olubadan throne alternates between two lines: Civil Line (Baale/Otun) and Military Line (Balogun).
The unique rotational system has been in place for many decades, ensuring a predictable and stable transfer of power.
The Olubadan-designate is expected back in the state any moment from today, to take part in activities lined up for the burial of Oba Olakulehin, which began yesterday with sporting activities.
The final burial is slated for Friday at the Cathedral of Saint Peters, Aremo, Ibadan.
The Nation reports that it is the first time nomination meeting is taking place at the new palace, as previous ones were held either at Oja’ba Palace or Mapo Hall.
The Nation reports that the Olubadan-in-Council meeting was held a week after the completion of the 21 days mourning period in honour of the late Oba Olakulehin, who was the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland.
He passed away on July 7 after spending a year on the throne. The monarch succeeded Oba Mohood Lekan Balogun, Alli Okunmade II, who was the 42nd Olubadan of Ibadanland.
At press time, it could not be confirmed if the nomination letter had been delivered to the governor through the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters.
