At his coronation ceremony, the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, appealed to President Bola Tinubu to prioritize the creation of a new state for Ibadan before the year 2027.
The monarch made this heartfelt request shortly after receiving his staff of office in a ceremony attended by President Tinubu, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, and other dignitaries.
In a message delivered in Yoruba, Oba Ladoja conveyed the urgent desire of his people: “My people sent me a message to the Mr. President. They said the creation of Ibadan State is their priority.”
Governor Seyi Makinde, who was present at the event, hailed the coronation of Oba Ladoja as a proud moment for the ancient city.
He expressed joy in celebrating the new traditional ruler, underscoring the importance of traditions to the people of Ibadan. “The joy and excitement that fill Ibadan today remind us of the importance of upholding our cherished traditions,” Makinde said.
The call for state creation reflects longstanding aspirations of the Ibadan community to gain greater administrative autonomy and development opportunities.