The Olubadan-designate, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, is expected to return to Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, any moment from now, following the conclusion of the 21-day mourning period for the late Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin.
According to a report seen in The PUNCH, all is now set for Oba Ladoja’s arrival, his first public appearance since the death of his predecessor.
Palace sources also confirmed that the former Oyo State governor will be welcomed back with fanfare at his private residence on Ondo Street, Ibadan.
Oba Olakulehin, the 43rd Olubadan, passed away on Monday, June 7, 2025, just two days after celebrating his 90th birthday. He was scheduled to mark his first coronation anniversary on Saturday, June 12, but died before the ceremony could take place.
The 21-day mourning period, observed in line with the age-long tradition of Ibadanland, officially ends on Monday, July 28. During this period, the Olubadan-designate had remained out of public view, paying respects to the late monarch.
A palace source revealed, “We are expecting Oba Ladoja any moment from now. The 21 days of mourning end tomorrow. He had earlier said he would mourn the deceased monarch as stipulated in our tradition in Ibadan land.”
