The Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, Arusa I, has appointed Olaolu Owolabi, SAN, as the Mogaji of the Olakulehin Royal Family of Ibadan, in a move that reinforces continuity, leadership, and the enduring values of Ibadan’s traditional institution.
The appointment was formalised at a solemn ceremony held at the historic Old Olubadan’s Palace, Oja’ba, where the Olubadan, in accordance with age-long custom, presented the new Mogaji to the Olubadan-in-Council and charged him with the responsibilities of his office.

By this appointment, 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 head of the Olakulehin Royal Family.
The development represents not only a change in leadership but a continuation of a lineage defined by honour, service, and commitment to the unity of family and community.
In his traditional charge, the Olubadan emphasised that the office of Mogaji is a sacred trust that goes beyond ceremonial recognition.

His Imperial Majesty enjoined the new Mogaji to hold the family together, promote peace and security within the community, and serve as a guide to younger members of the family.
He further urged him to enlighten youths on the values of discipline, industry, and patriotism, while encouraging them to take advantage of structured career opportunities, particularly within the military and paramilitary services.
Observers at the ceremony noted that the appointment of Mogaji Owolabi symbolises a convergence of professional distinction and traditional responsibility, positioning him as a bridge between generations.

Known for his calm disposition and principled approach to leadership, he brings into the role a reputation built on integrity, fairness, and respect for due process—qualities long associated with the Olakulehin Royal Family.
The ceremony attracted a distinguished gathering of traditional rulers, chiefs, and dignitaries, including 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, alongside other members of the Olubadan Advisory Council, community leaders, and members of the Olakulehin Royal Family.

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.