‘Create Ibadan State,’ Oba Ladoja Tells Tinubu After Installation As 44th Olubadan
The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, has urged President Bola Tinubu to approve the creation of Ibadan State.
During his coronation speech in Ibadan, on Friday, Oba Ladoja echoed the Olubadan-in-Council’s position, noting that the demand for Ibadan State also reflects the wishes of the people.
“They (Olubadan-in-Council) have a message for you, Mr President. They want Ibadan State. Or is it not so?” he said.
The Olubadan asked the crowd to rise and appreciate the President “in advance” for granting the request.
“I’m sure that if President Tinubu has one option of state creation from Oyo State, it’d be Ibadan State.
“Please do this in good time. We can’t wait to have Ibadan State, in fact, before the 2027 election,” Oba Ladoja stated.
State creation is one of the major agitation among different groups and individuals in the ongoing review of the 1999 Constitution.
Nigeria currently has 36 states spread across six geopolitical zones.
The monarch, who marked his 81st birthday a day earlier, promised to continue serving Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria, and Africa.
“I salute all Ibadan residents for their perseverance since the start of the coronation about a week ago,” he added.
Ladoja was crowned on Friday and received the staff of office from the Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, amid cheers from guests and Ibadan residents.
The coronation was held at the historic Mapo Hall in Ibadan, Oyo State, on September 26, 2025.
The colourful event was attended by dignitaries from different walks of life. They include serving and former governors, traditional and religious leaders.
They include serving and former governors, traditional and religious leaders.
Notable guests included the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade; Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Ọlaoye; and Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III.
Former governors Donald Duke, Ibikunle Amosun, Olagunsoye Oyinlola, and Rabiu Kwankwaso also attended.
