Ibadan, situated in the southwestern region of Nigeria and serving as the capital city of Oyo State, boasts an ancient Yorùbá heritage established by valiant warriors. Diverging from conventional Yorùbá townships, Ibadan embraces a longstanding and distinctive obaship system. In recent times, Ibadan has exemplified its status as a trailblazer by introducing minor adjustments to the ascension process towards the prestigious Olubadan throne.

In this article, we’ll explore 6 things you should know about the Obaship system in Ibadan.

1- Paths to Olubadan Ascension: The journey to the Olubadan throne comprises two routes: the Olubadan (Civil) Line and the Balogun (Military) Line. Commencing with the Mogaji title within one’s compound, individuals navigate through either 22 stages in the Civil Line or 23 stages in the Military Line, both originating from Jagun.

2- Rotation of Civil and Military Lines: The chieftaincy structure alternates between the Olubadan and Balogun lines, ensuring a rotational succession pattern. While a Seriki line exists, akin to the Civil line’s Iyaloja, it primarily serves as a youth group fused into the Balogun line.

3- Absence of Designated Royal Houses: Unlike many Yorùbá Obaship systems, Ibadan’s framework lacks specific ruling houses. Eligibility for the Olubadan position extends to anyone who is a genuine son of Ibadan and successfully ascends either of the two pathways.

4- Promotion of Lesser Obas: Modernization efforts led to the promotion of some High Chiefs and Baales to the Oba status. This practice faced challenges but eventually saw the re-elevation of 10 high chiefs to Obaship status, making Ibadan possibly the first Yorùbá town to promote a lesser Oba to another Oba.

5- Elderly Monarchs: Noteworthy in the Ibadan Obaship system is the tendency to produce aged monarchs due to the extensive ascension process. Succession occurs when a successor is chosen from either line, resulting in aged rulers.

6- Longest-Serving Olubadan: Historically, many Olubadans have assumed the throne at an advanced age. The most recent Olubadans, such as Oba Saliu Adetunji and Oba Moshood Lekan Balogun, exemplify this trend, though there have been exceptions like Olubadan Okunola Abaasi Alesinloye Isale Ijebu, who reigned for 16 years.