Oba Ladoja Pushes For Creation Of Ibadan State

The incoming Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has declared that one of his deepest desires as he ascends the throne is to see Ibadan State created from the present Oyo State.

He said the move would crown his reign with fulfillment and give Ibadan a new chapter in its history.

The monarch made this known while receiving visitors at his Bodija residence in Ibadan. He explained that Ibadan has long been due for statehood, pointing out its size and structure with eleven local government areas as proof that it has the capacity to stand alone as a state.

The push for Ibadan State has been gaining ground since a bill was introduced in the House of Representatives earlier this year. The proposal, sponsored by Rep. Abass Adigun, seeks to amend the constitution to create Ibadan State with Ibadan city as its capital. The bill also recommends carving out 32 local government areas from the region to strengthen its governance structure.

Support for the initiative has been strong across Ibadan and Oyo State. Traditional leaders, compound heads, the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes, and civic groups have voiced their approval, with many presenting their backing during the South West zonal public hearing on constitutional review in Lagos.

Adigun, who represents Ibadan North East/South East federal constituency, has argued that Ibadan has enough human and material resources to compete with other states in the federation. He believes the new state would not only strengthen Nigeria’s federal balance but also allow Ibadan to take charge of its affairs and pursue its own growth agenda.

Advocates of the proposal say Ibadan State would unlock new opportunities in governance, infrastructure, and the economy. They argue that greater autonomy would enable leaders to make decisions tailored to the needs of the people while giving the city and surrounding areas a stronger voice in national development.

The renewed call by Oba Ladoja is seen as adding weight to the agitation, as traditional institutions continue to play a central role in shaping public opinion. With rising support from both political representatives and local communities, the campaign for Ibadan State appears to be gathering momentum at a pace not seen in years.