The newly crowned 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to ensure the creation of Ibadan State before the year 2027.
The monarch made the appeal on Friday during his coronation at Mapo Hall, Ibadan, shortly after receiving the staff and instrument of office from Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde.
The event was attended by President Tinubu, top political figures, and traditional rulers.
Speaking in Yoruba, Oba Ladoja said:
“My people sent me a message to Mr President. Mr President, they said the creation of Ibadan State is their priority.”
Makinde Hails Ladoja’s Emergence
Governor Makinde described the installation of Oba Ladoja as a historic moment and a source of pride to the people of Ibadan.
“It is a great honour to join in celebrating the coronation and presentation of the Staff of Office to His Imperial Majesty, Oba Adewolu Ladoja, as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland. The joy and excitement that fill Ibadan today remind us of the importance of upholding our cherished traditions,” he said.
The governor had cut short his annual leave to personally attend the ceremony.
His resumption letter was formally acknowledged on Thursday at the Oyo State House of Assembly plenary by Deputy Speaker Muhammad Abiodun Fadeyi.
Push for State Creation Gains Momentum
Calls for the creation of Ibadan State are not new.
In October 2024, a bill seeking to amend the 1999 Constitution to create both Ibadan State and Oyo State passed its second reading in the House of Representatives.
The bill, sponsored by Hon. Akeem Adeyemi, son of the late Alaafin of Oyo, alongside six other lawmakers, proposed Oyo town as the capital of the new Oyo State, while Ibadan city would serve as the capital of Ibadan State.