High Chief Rasidi Ladoja, the Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, has decided to wear the beaded crown in accordance with the amended Chief’s Law of Oyo State.

This decision comes despite his earlier refusal to accept the crown when other members of the Olubadan-in-Council were crowned last year.

Ladoja, a former Governor of Oyo State, shared his decision during a program on Fresh FM in Ibadan. The chieftaincy reforms, initiated by the late Governor Abiola Ajimobi, were designed to elevate high-ranking chiefs by permitting them to wear beaded crowns.

On the radio program, Ladoja, who is seen as the likely successor to Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, clarified that the beaded crown is an honorary distinction, not a traditional one. He stated, “The beaded crowns are honorary and not traditional crowns. I spoke with the Oluwo, who confirmed that those who received the beaded crowns did not perform any traditional rites before being given the crowns. So, it is honorary.”

He further added, “If it is what the people of Ibadan want, I will accept it. But it remains an honorary title. The Olubadan will grant it, and the government has no role in it.”

Ladoja’s acceptance of the beaded crown marks a significant shift in his stance, which had been a point of contention with the state government.