Ladoja Paves Way for Installation of New Olubadan, Vacates Suit against Kingmakers

Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan

The coast appears clear now for the Olubadan-designate, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, to ascend the throne as the Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, High Chief Rasheed Ladoja, yesterday, withdrew the suit filed against members of the Olubadan-in-Council.

Ladoja had instituted the suit against Governor Seyi Makinde over the beaded wearing crown in July, 2023, after the approval of the elevation of the Ibadan High Chiefs to Obas following Olubadan’s recommendation.

It was later gathered that Ladoja indicated his willingness to withdraw the suit initiated against other council members on the condition that the two parties must sign the terms of settlement as prepared.

Ladoja said, “Myself and other members of Olubadan-in-Council have been sitting together and talking. We have agreed to withdraw the case from court.

“I heard that they have started signing the agreement. After all of them have signed, I will also sign my own aspect, and the next day, we will file for withdrawal of the case from court.” Ladoja said.

However, when one of the aides to Ladoja, Adeola Oloko, was contacted on the phone, he confirmed that the case had been withdrawn from the court.

Oloko said the counsel to the litigant would approach the court today (Wednesday) for enrollment order after which the defendants would be served with the case withdrawal notice.

“Baba has withdrawn the case filed against the Olubadan-in-Council from the Court. This will facilitate the enthronement of Oba Owolabi Olakulehin as the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland.

“Ladoja has lived up to his promise to the people of Ibadanland to withdraw the case from the court.

“There is no longer any delay from his end. What is next now is for Governor Makinde to approve the nomination of Oba Olakulehin as the next Olubadan.”