By Tunji Oladejo
In a historic moment marked by grandeur and symbolism, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, has passionately appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the creation of Ibadan State, carving it out of the existing Oyo State. This fervent call was made during his coronation speech at Mapo Hall, Ibadan, on Friday, September 26, 2025, with President Tinubu in attendance as a Special Guest of Honour.
Speaking in Yoruba, Oba Ladoja conveyed his people’s urgent desire: “If there is only one State to be created, Mr President, let it be Ibadan State. We are in a hurry.” This plea underscores the longstanding aspiration of Ibadan’s people for statehood, citing the city’s substantial population, cultural influence, and economic significance.
The coronation drew prominent figures, including the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence, Alhaji Saad Abubakar, CFR, the Chancellor, University of Ibadan and former Governors like Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso and Kayode Fayemi, highlighting Ibadanland’s political gravitas.
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State presented Oba Ladoja with the staff of office, praising the peaceful succession process and expressing hope for progress under the new Olubadan’s reign.
A constitutional amendment bill seeking to create Ibadan and Oyo State, has passed second reading in Nigeria’s House of Representatives, sponsored by Akeem Adeyemi (Skimeh) and others.
Oba Ladoja’s demand reflects Ibadan’land’s historical prominence and its people’s quest for autonomy and development. With Ibadanland poised as the capital of the proposed new state, stakeholders argue the city warrants recognition given its educational institutions, human capital and cultural heritage.
President Tinubu now faces a pivotal decision amid Ibadanland’s fervent request for statehood. As Oba Ladoja dedicates his reign to serving Ibadanland, Oyo State, Nigeria and Africa, the ball is in the Federal Government’s court. Will Ibadanland’s aspiration translate into reality before 2027, as urged by the Olubadan, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, Arusa I, the Olubadan of Ibadanland?
Tunji Oladejo, JP, MNIPR, who writes from the University of Ibadan via oladejo65@gmail.com
08077284442 is the former Acting National Secretary (2003-2005), former National Public Relations Officer (2007-2009), Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) and Secretary of the First-ever Olubadan Coronation Lecture.
Topic: IBADAN IN HISTORY: ISSUES IN MODERNITY AND TRADITION
Lecturer: Professor Toyin Falola, D.Litt. (Ib), Jacob & Sanger Chair of Humanities, University of Texas at Austin, USA & Bobapitan of Ibadanland.
