The Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, Arusa I, has officially appointed Olaolu Owolabi, SAN, as the new Mogaji of the Olakulehin Royal Family of Ibadan. This appointment underscores the continuity of leadership and the enduring traditions of Ibadan's revered traditional institution.
Ceremony at the Historic Palace
The formal appointment took place during a solemn ceremony at the historic Old Olubadan's Palace in Oja'ba. In accordance with age-old customs, the Olubadan presented the new Mogaji to the Olubadan-in-Council and charged him with the significant responsibilities of his office.
Succession and Legacy
Mogaji Olaolu Owolabi, SAN, a distinguished legal practitioner and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, succeeds the late 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba (Dr) Akinloye Owolabi-Olakulehin, as the head of the Olakulehin Royal Family. This transition marks not only a change in leadership but also a continuation of a lineage defined by honour, service, and commitment to family and community unity.
In his traditional charge, the Olubadan emphasized that the office of Mogaji is a sacred trust that extends beyond ceremonial recognition. He urged the new Mogaji to hold the family together, promote peace and security within the community, and serve as a guide to younger family members. The Olubadan further encouraged him to enlighten youths on the values of discipline, industry, and patriotism, while motivating them to explore structured career opportunities, particularly within the military and paramilitary services.
Convergence of Professional and Traditional Excellence
Observers at the ceremony noted that the appointment of Mogaji Owolabi symbolizes a convergence of professional distinction and traditional responsibility, positioning him as a bridge between generations. Known for his calm demeanor and principled approach to leadership, he brings to the role a reputation built on integrity, fairness, and respect for due process—qualities long associated with the Olakulehin Royal Family.
Distinguished Attendees
The ceremony attracted a distinguished gathering of traditional rulers, chiefs, and dignitaries. Among those present were the Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola; Otun Olubadan, Oba Eddy Oyewole; Otun Balogun, Oba Kola Adegbola; Osi Olubadan, Oba Abiodun Kola-Daisi; Asipa Balogun, Abiodun Azeez Agagagugu; Ekerin Olubadan, Adebayo Akande; Ekerin Balogun, Akim Adewoyin; and Ekarun Balogun, Sarafadeen Alli. Other members of the Olubadan Advisory Council, community leaders, and members of the Olakulehin Royal Family also attended.
Acceptance Speech and Pledge
In his acceptance remarks, Mogaji Olaolu Owolabi, SAN, expressed deep appreciation to the Olubadan of Ibadanland and the Olubadan-in-Council for the confidence reposed in him. He acknowledged the weight of the responsibility entrusted to him and described the appointment as both an honour and a call to service. Reflecting on the legacy of his predecessor, the late Olubadan, Mogaji Owolabi pledged to uphold the values of unity, humility, and selfless leadership that have long defined his family. He noted that his guiding principle would remain the belief that “a good name is more than all the riches in the world,” assuring that he would discharge his duties with diligence and dedication to the progress of the Olakulehin Royal Family and Ibadanland at large.
