Former Oyo State Governor and the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, has remained one of the most influential political figures in the state's democratic history. His political decisions over the years have continued to shape the outcome of governorship elections and redefine the balance of power in Oyo politics.
When the late Senator Abiola Ajimobi was declared Governor of Oyo State for his first term in 2011, he publicly paid respect to Ladoja by prostrating (dobale) before him, acknowledging the crucial role the former governor played in his political emergence. Ladoja also rewarded many of his loyalists with appointments in the new administration, reflecting the political understanding that existed between both leaders at the time.
However, that relationship later deteriorated, and the two political heavyweights eventually became rivals. Their political alliance gave way to intense disagreements, setting the stage for a new chapter in Oyo State's political landscape.
Ahead of the 2019 governorship election, Ajimobi sought to install a preferred successor after completing his constitutionally allowed two terms in office. Ladoja was said to have opposed that ambition. Rather than supporting the continuity of Ajimobi's political structure, he reportedly aligned with a broader coalition that ultimately favoured the emergence of Seyi Makinde of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Political observers have often argued that Ladoja's influence was instrumental in the formation of that coalition. He was credited with persuading and pacifying several opposition governorship aspirants, including Sharafadeen Alli of the Zenith Labour Party (ZLP), the Social Democratic Party (SDP) candidate, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate and others, to set aside their individual ambitions in the interest of a united front. The coalition significantly reduced opposition fragmentation and contributed to Makinde's convincing victory at the polls.
By the 2023 governorship election, Ladoja appeared less invested in determining who would occupy the Agodi Government House. Rather than taking an active role in shaping the contest, he maintained a relatively reserved posture, watching political events unfold without openly championing any particular governorship project.
Today, however, the political conversation appears to be shifting once again. Many political watchers believe Ladoja's influence within the All Progressives Congress (APC) has become increasingly significant. His long-time political associate, Senator Sharafadeen Alli, is widely seen as the leading figure expected to emerge as the APC's governorship candidate for the 2027 election, with many attributing that prospect to Ladoja's political endorsement and influence.
At the same time, Governor Seyi Makinde is widely believed to be interested in ensuring continuity after the expiration of his tenure in 2027 by supporting a successor. Yet, judging by recent political developments and Ladoja's body language, many analysts believe the former governor may not be willing to endorse any succession arrangement that does not align with his own political calculations.
Now occupying the revered throne as the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Ladoja combines traditional authority with decades of political experience, making him one of the most respected and influential personalities in Oyo State. His transition from partisan politician to monarch has not diminished public interest in his political relevance; if anything, it has elevated his stature in conversations about the future of Oyo politics.
As preparations for the 2027 governorship election gradually gather momentum, one question continues to dominate political discussions across the state: Has Oba Rashidi Ladoja become the undisputed kingmaker and standing godfather of Oyo politics, and will the 2027 election finally mark the end of his extraordinary political influence, or further cement his enduring legacy?
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