By Obinna Uballa
The newly crowned Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Adewolu Ladoja, has urged President Bola Tinubu to ensure the creation of Ibadan State before the 2027 general election, describing it as the foremost demand of his people.
Addressing a large gathering at Mapo Hall after receiving the Staff of Office from Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, the monarch said in Yoruba: “My people sent me a message to Mr President. Mr President, they said the creation of Ibadan State is their priority.”
Governor Makinde, who cut short his annual leave to attend the coronation, described Ladoja’s ascension as the 44th Olubadan as a moment of pride for Ibadanland and Oyo State.
“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. “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. I rejoice with the Olubadan, the Ibadan Council of Chiefs, and the entire people of Ibadanland. It is my prayer that his reign will usher in lasting peace, unity, and greater progress.”
The historic coronation was witnessed by prominent dignitaries, including the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III; former Kano State governor, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso; former Osun State governor, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola; former Ekiti State governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi; and former Cross River State governor, Donald Duke.
Earlier, the Afobaje of Ibadanland, Chief Waheed Popoola, performed the traditional rites by placing Akoko leaves on Oba Ladoja’s head at the Labosinde Compound, Oja’ba, before the monarch proceeded in a colourful procession to Mapo Hall for the official ceremony.
The new Olubadan’s entourage included political allies such as Senator Sharafadeen Abiodun (Ibadan South) and former Oyo governorship candidate, Teslim Folarin. Also present were Senator Yunus Akintunde (Oyo Central), Senator Abdulfatai Buhari (Oyo North), and Olamijuwonlo Alao-Akala, who represents Ogbomoso North in the House of Representatives, alongside other federal and state lawmakers.
