The newly installed 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, has called on President Bola Tinubu to create Ibadan State, before 2027.
Speaking after receiving the Staff of Office from Governor Seyi Makinde on Friday, the monarch emphasized that this was the foremost demand of his people.
Ladoja, who addressed the gathering in Yoruba, delivered his people’s message directly to the President. “Mr President, they said the creation of Ibadan State is their priority,” he declared, urging that this be achieved before 2027.
Governor Makinde praised the new Olubadan’s emergence as a source of pride for Ibadan. He noted that the succession process for the throne is now smooth and free of contestation, reflecting the city’s ability to preserve tradition while fostering unity.
Makinde expressed hope that Ladoja’s reign would bring peace, progress, and greater development to Ibadan and Oyo State. “The joy and excitement that fill Ibadan today remind us of the importance of upholding our cherished traditions,” the governor added.
The coronation ceremony drew a wide array of dignitaries, underscoring Ibadan’s political and cultural importance. The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III, former governors Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, Olagunsoye Oyinlola, Kayode Fayemi, and Donald Duke were all in attendance.
Traditional rites were first performed at the Labosinde Compound, Oja’ba, where the Afobaje of Ibadanland, Chief Waheed Popoola, placed Akoko leaves on Oba Ladoja’s head. The monarch then proceeded in a grand procession to Mapo Hall for the official ceremony.
