The newly crowned 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to ensure the creation of Ibadan State before the end of his administration in 2027.
Speaking shortly after receiving his Staff of Office from Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, Oba Ladoja conveyed the demand of his people, stating in Yoruba:
“My people have a message for Mr President. They said the creation of Ibadan State is their top priority.”
Governor Makinde Hails Monarch’s Coronation
Governor Makinde described the coronation as a historic moment, praising Oba Ladoja’s emergence as a source of pride for the ancient city. He commended the smooth succession process to the Olubadan throne, noting it was now well-structured and free of disputes.
“It is a great honour to celebrate this coronation,” Makinde said. “I pray that Oba Ladoja’s reign will bring lasting peace, unity, and progress to Ibadanland and Oyo State.”
High-Profile Attendance
The event at Mapo Hall attracted dignitaries from across Nigeria, including:
- The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III
- Former Kano Governor, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso
- Former Osun Governor, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola
- Former Ekiti Governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi
- Former Cross River Governor, Donald Duke
Traditional rites were first performed at the Labosinde Compound, where Chief Waheed Popoola, the Afobaje of Ibadanland, placed Akoko leaves on the monarch’s head before he proceeded in a grand procession to Mapo Hall.
The new Olubadan was also accompanied by political allies such as Senator Sharafadeen Abiodun, former Oyo governorship candidate Teslim Folarin, Senator Yunus Akintunde, Senator Abdulfatai Buhari, and House of Representatives member Olamijuwonlo Alao-Akala, among others.