The Olubadan-designate, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, is expected to return to Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State, this week as the traditional 21-day mourning period for the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, comes to a close.

Palace sources told Punch on Sunday that Oba Ladoja, who has been away mourning the deceased monarch, will make his first public appearance in Ibadan “any moment from now.”

According to a palace source, the return of Oba Ladoja aligns with Ibadan’s long-standing tradition of observing a mourning period before the successor assumes public duties.

“We are expecting Oba Ladoja any moment from now. The 21 days of mourning end tomorrow (Monday). He had earlier said he would mourn the deceased monarch as stipulated in our tradition,” the source revealed.

Arrangements have reportedly been concluded by well-wishers to welcome the Olubadan-designate back to his Ondo Street residence in Ibadan with fanfare.

The late Oba Olakulehin, who died on Monday, June 7, 2025, just days after his 90th birthday and ahead of his first coronation anniversary, will be buried according to Christian rites.

“He attended the Cathedral of St. Peter, Aremo, in Ibadan and was a devout Christian till death. So, he would be buried according to Christian injunctions,” a palace insider said.

The burial has been tentatively scheduled for August 8, with state involvement expected in the arrangements. Discussions between the state government and the monarch’s family are ongoing to ensure a befitting state burial.

“This is a state burial. Until the government and family announce officially, nobody can say anything about it. The government will inform the public accordingly,” another source explained.

When contacted, the Chief Press Secretary to the Olubadan, Gbenga Ayoade, confirmed preparations were on track.

“Everything is going on smoothly. The family of the late revered monarch will soon release a statement to that effect,” Ayoade said.