The Olubadan-in-Council will on Monday, August 4, hold a crucial meeting to deliberate on the nomination of the next Olubadan of Ibadanland, following the demise of the late Oba Owolabi Olakulehin.
The meeting, which is scheduled to take place at the newly constructed Olubadan Palace at Oke Aremo, Ibadan, marks the first official gathering of the Council at the new facility, replacing previous venues such as the Oja’ba Palace and Mapo Hall.
Reliable sources indicate that the Council is expected to uphold the city’s long-standing traditional succession system, which places former Oyo State Governor and Otun Olubadan, Oba Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja, as next in line to the throne. If the customary process is followed, Oba Ladoja will be nominated as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.
Once nominated, the Council’s recommendation will be forwarded to the Oyo State Government through the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters for ratification by Governor Seyi Makinde.
Confirming the planned meeting, the Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, stated that invitations had been issued to all Council members, noting that the meeting was specifically convened to fill the vacant stool.
“The meeting is that of the members of the Olubadan-in-Council. It will take place at the Olubadan Palace at Oke Aremo. We called the meeting to nominate a new Olubadan to occupy the vacant stool,” Oba Ajibola said.
Although Oba Ladoja is currently outside the state, he is expected to return over the weekend. However, Oba Ajibola clarified that his absence would not impede the Council’s proceedings.
“It does not matter if the next-in-line is not present, it won’t stop us from nominating the new Olubadan. The main focus of the meeting is to deliberate and take a decision on the vacant stool,” he added.
