The Olubadan-designate, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has promised to pay a royal visit to his alma mater, Ibadan Boys’ High School, after his coronation as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland — and teach Physics and Mathematics to students during the visit.
Ladoja made the promise on Monday while hosting the school’s management team, led by its Principal, Rasheed Fasasi, at his Bodija residence in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.
Known for its uniquely merit-based succession system, the Olubadan line of ascension moves through two chieftaincy lines — Otun and Balogun — ensuring that nearly every eligible high chief has a chance to become Olubadan.
Recall that Ladoja, a former governor of Oyo State and respected Ibadan High Chief, emerged as the Olubadan-designate following the passage of the 43rd Olubadan, Oba Lekan Balogun, in March 2024.
Ladoja, who held the title of Osi Olubadan, was next in line on the Otun line at the time of Balogun’s death. His elevation to Olubadan-designate was automatic after traditional and government formalities were completed, in keeping with Ibadan’s merit-based system that allows almost every chief to eventually ascend the throne if they live long enough.
The monarch-in-waiting said the visit would be an opportunity to reconnect with his roots and inspire the students, recalling that he once served as a teacher at the school.
“Beyond being an alumnus of the school, I was also a former teacher here, where I taught Mathematics and Physics. So, during my visit after the coronation, I will engage the students in classwork”, Ladoja said.
He expressed appreciation to the school management for the visit and praised the principal for sustaining the school’s reputation as a model institution.
Earlier, the principal, Fasasi, said he believed that the monarch’s visit would rekindle the students’ pride in their school and boost their morale.
He congratulated Ladoja on his forthcoming coronation and wished him a peaceful, successful reign.
PUNCH Online reports that Ladoja’s pledge to return to Ibadan Boys’ High School highlights his enduring connection to education and mentorship.
His gesture is expected to inspire students and underline the importance of education as a tool for personal and community development.
The visit will also likely reinforce the cultural and historical ties between Ibadan’s traditional institution and its educational heritage, showcasing the Olubadan’s role not just as a cultural leader but also as a symbol of intellectual and moral guidance for the next generation.
Aside from his political career as governor between 2003 and 2007, Ladoja is known for his deep involvement in Ibadan’s traditional council and his advocacy for preserving the city’s unique succession process.
His coronation as the 44th Olubadan is expected to draw dignitaries from across Nigeria and reaffirm Ibadan’s position as a bastion of Yoruba culture and tradition.
