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 death of the 43rd Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin.

Naijaonpoint reports that the meeting, which will take place at the newly constructed Olubadan Palace in Oke Aremo, Ibadan, will be the council’s first official gathering at the new facility, replacing previous venues such as the Oja’ba Palace and Mapo Hall.

Sources close to the council, who spoke with The Guardian, indicate that the traditional succession process is expected to be upheld, with former Oyo State Governor and Otun Olubadan, Oba Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja, likely to be nominated as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.

Once the nomination is made, 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, said invitations had been sent to all council members.

Oba Ajibola said, “The meeting is that of the members of the Olubadan-in-Council. The event will take place at the Olubadan Palace in Oke Aremo. We called the meeting to nominate a new Olubadan to occupy the vacant stool.”

Although Oba Ladoja is currently out of state, he is expected to return before the end of the weekend. Oba Ajibola, however, clarified that the nomination process would not be delayed if he is absent during the meeting.

“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.