The newly installed 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, has appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to grant the long-standing request of the Ibadan people by creating Ibadan State out of the present Oyo State.
Oba Ladoja made the call on Friday in Ibadan, shortly after receiving the Staff of Office from Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde.
“My people sent me a message to Mr. President. Mr. President, they said the creation of Ibadan State is their priority,” the monarch declared.
He urged President Tinubu to fulfill this request before the end of his administration in 2027, describing the creation of Ibadan State as a matter of regional pride and importance to his people.
Oba Ladoja, a former governor of Oyo State, pledged to serve the people of Ibadan diligently.
He promised to focus on job creation for youths and push forward an urban renewal agenda aimed at transforming Ibadan into a more modern and inclusive city.
Speaking at the coronation ceremony, Governor Seyi Makinde expressed joy over the successful installation of the new monarch, noting that the event was a moment of pride and cultural unity for the people of Ibadanland.
“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,” Makinde said.
He lauded the peaceful and well-structured succession process that led to Ladoja’s ascension to the throne.
“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,” the governor added.
Makinde expressed hope that Oba Ladoja’s reign would bring lasting peace, unity, and development to Ibadanland and Oyo State at large.
