The 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, has renewed calls for the creation of an Ibadan State, urging President Bola Tinubu to make it a reality before 2027.
The monarch made the demand while addressing the people of Ibadan shortly after receiving the Staff of Office from Governor Seyi Makinde on Friday.
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.”
At the ceremony, Governor Makinde praised the new Olubadan, describing his ascension as a source of pride to the ancient city.
He said: “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.
“The succession process to the throne of Olubadan is now well established and free from contestation, and this is a source of pride for us all. I rejoice with the Olubadan, the Ibadan Council of Chiefs, and the entire people of Ibadanland.
“It is my prayer that the reign of Oba Adewolu Ladoja will usher in lasting peace, unity, and greater progress for Ibadanland and for Oyo State as a whole.”
The coronation, held at Mapo Hall after traditional rites at the Labosinde Compound, drew dignitaries including the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III; Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso; Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola; Dr. Kayode Fayemi; and Donald Duke.
Political allies of the new monarch such as Senator Sharafadeen Abiodun and Teslim Folarin also joined the ceremony, alongside lawmakers Senator Yunus Akintunde, Senator Abdulfatai Buhari, and Olamijuwonlo Alao-Akala, among others
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