Olubadan calls for creation of Ibadan state as Tinubu declares economy on path to recovery

By Matthew Ogunwale

The coronation of Oba (Sen) Rashidi Adewolu Akanmu Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland on Friday became both a celebration of culture and a platform for political and economic messages.

Shortly after receiving the Staff of Office from Governor Seyi Makinde, Oba Ladoja made a bold appeal to President Bola Tinubu for the creation of a new Ibadan State. Addressing the gathering in Yoruba, the monarch said, “My people sent me a message to Mr President. They said the creation of Ibadan State is their priority.” This call was met with loud cheers from the crowd, many of whom waved banners and chanted in support of the demand.

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President Tinubu, who attended the ceremony to honour his long-time friend and political ally, responded by providing assurances about Nigeria’s economic direction. He declared that his administration’s reforms had begun to yield results, insisting that the country was on a path to recovery.

“Today, I am honoured to bring the cheering news that our economy has turned around, and there is now light at the end of the tunnel,” the President stated. “The reforms have been successful because of the support, endurance, and sacrifices of Nigerians. I thank you all for your patience and assure you that you will soon begin to enjoy the fruits of these efforts.”

The President also commended the new Olubadan for his resilience, recalling his political struggles, including surviving an illegal impeachment while serving as the governor of Oyo State. He described the coronation as both a personal “homecoming” and a historic moment for Ibadan.

Governor Makinde, while presenting the certificate and Staff of Office, stated that Oba Ladoja’s ascension had resolved long-standing disputes within Ibadan’s traditional system. “There is no more rancour about the kingship in Ibadanland. All challenges associated with the institution are now over, and the process is sacrosanct,” the governor declared.

He also thanked President Tinubu for honouring Ibadanland with his presence, describing the event as a proud moment for all indigenes.

Reflecting on his journey from being Mogaji of the Arusa family in 1992 to the throne, Oba Ladoja expressed gratitude to God and pledged to uphold the responsibilities of the office. “It is not by power, influence, connection, or money that we are here today. I appreciate God for taking me to the finishing line. I accept not just the paraphernalia of the office but also the responsibilities attached to it,” he said.