Following the passing of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, on Monday, the royal drummers traditionally attached to the monarch have moved to the Bodija residence of Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, the next in line to ascend the throne.
As news of Oba Olakulehin’s transition spread across Ibadan, thousands of well-wishers and the palace’s traditional drummers shifted their allegiance to Oba Ladoja, who currently holds the title of Otun Olubadan, the next in the hierarchical line to become Olubadan.
This development mirrors the events of March 14, 2024, when Oba Olalekan Balogun passed away.
On that occasion, the same group of royal drummers immediately relocated to the Alalubosa residence of Oba Olakulehin, signaling his position as the heir to the throne at the time.
Oba Ladoja, born on September 25, 1944, now awaits the formal processes that will confirm his ascension.
According to tradition, the Olubadan-in-Council will first nominate him as the preferred candidate.
The council’s nomination will then be submitted to the Oyo State Government for approval and the official presentation of the staff of office.
