The 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has renewed the long-standing call for the creation of a separate Ibadan State, urging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to ensure the long-awaited demand is met before the 2027 general elections.
Oba Ladoja made the appeal on Thursday, shortly after he was formally presented with the Staff of Office by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, an event that officially confirmed his ascension as the 44th traditional ruler of the ancient city.
Addressing an enthusiastic crowd of indigenes, chiefs and well-wishers who thronged the venue, the monarch described the creation of an Ibadan State as “a dream our forefathers pursued with passion” and a matter of equity in Nigeria’s federal structure.
According to him, Ibadan being one of the largest and most historic Yoruba cities has played a pivotal role in the political and economic growth of the South-West and deserves its own state to fast-track development and give its people a stronger voice at the national level.
“This is a long-standing aspiration of our people. We appeal to President Bola Tinubu and the National Assembly to make the creation of Ibadan State a reality before the 2027 elections,” Oba Ladoja said.
The royal father commended Governor Makinde for his support during the traditional installation process and urged political leaders across Oyo State and beyond to unite behind the cause. He noted that a dedicated Ibadan State would enhance governance, attract greater federal resources and open fresh opportunities for infrastructural and social development.
The call for an Ibadan State dates back several decades, with successive administrations and prominent Ibadan sons and daughters consistently advocating for it. Oba Ladoja’s renewed push is expected to re-ignite the debate and put pressure on federal lawmakers and the Presidency to revisit the proposal in the build-up to the next election cycle.
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