The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has launched sweeping reforms to reshape the entry process into the Ibadan traditional chieftaincy system, firmly declaring that wealth and patronage will no longer secure a place in the revered Olubadan succession line.
The landmark announcement was made on Friday at the Olubadan Palace in Oke-Aremo, Ibadan, during the installation of Chief Oladiran Alabi Yeronbi as Jagun Olubadan—the officially recognised entry point into the hierarchy.
Under the new framework, the monarch said only individuals with proven records of service, integrity, and measurable contributions to community development will be considered. Represented by the Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, the Olubadan emphasized that beyond education and financial stability, candidates must now demonstrate tangible impact at both family and grassroots levels.
He explained that the reform, backed by the Olubadan Advisory Council, is designed to restore credibility, ensure fairness, and safeguard the institution for future generations. According to him, the long-standing influence of money in determining chieftaincy titles is being deliberately dismantled in favour of a transparent, merit-driven process.
As part of the overhaul, three screening committees were established to assess applicants for the Jagun title. A total of 102 Mogajis applied, with candidates evaluated based on documented evidence of community impact, including empowerment programmes, social interventions, and developmental initiatives.
At the conclusion of the rigorous process, Chief Oladiran Alabi Yeronbi emerged as the successful candidate. The Olubadan commended other applicants for their efforts, urging them to remain committed to community service despite the limited availability of positions.
In his acceptance remarks, Yeronbi pledged to expand his grassroots initiatives, with a focus on youth empowerment, educational support, and sustainable community development. He also backed the palace’s stance against land grabbing, describing it as a threat to social order, and stressed the importance of community-led security efforts.