Royal drummers attached to the Olubadan stool have relocated to the Bodija home of Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, the next in line to the throne of Ibadanland, following the passing of Oba Owolabi Olakulehin on Monday.
Naijaonpoint learnt that the traditional drummers, known for their allegiance to the reigning monarch, reportedly moved base shortly after the death of the 43rd Olubadan became public.
As is customary in the Ibadan chieftaincy hierarchy, the royal drummers and many well-wishers began gathering at Oba Ladoja’s residence immediately after news of Oba Olakulehin’s death filtered in.
Oba Ladoja, who holds the title of Otun Olubadan, is the most senior high chief and next in line to ascend the throne, in accordance with the city’s well-established rotational succession system.
A similar event occurred following the passing of Oba Lekan Balogun on March 14, 2024, when the royal drummers moved to the Alalubosa residence of Oba Olakulehin, who was then next in line.
Oba Ladoja, a former governor of Oyo State and a respected statesman, was born on September 25, 1944. His emergence as the 44th Olubadan is now only a matter of official procedure.
The next steps include the formal nomination by the Olubadan-in-Council, who will submit his name to the Oyo State Government for ratification and subsequent presentation of the staff of office.