The newly crowned 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to fast-track the creation of Ibadan State before the year 2027.
Oba Ladoja made the call while addressing a large gathering of indigenes and dignitaries shortly after receiving the Staff of Office from Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, in Ibadan on Friday.
The monarch, who described the demand as a long-standing aspiration of the people, said Ibadan’s population, landmass, and historical significance make it deserving of statehood. He urged the President to use his office to ensure the request becomes a reality within his administration’s tenure.
“Ibadan has contributed immensely to the development of Nigeria, and it is time our long dream of having Ibadan State is realized. We ask President Bola Tinubu to make this happen before 2027,” the Olubadan declared.
The call for Ibadan State has been a recurring agitation by traditional leaders, political stakeholders, and socio-cultural groups in Oyo State over the years. Oba Ladoja’s renewed push is expected to rekindle debates on state creation in Nigeria.