Olubadan to Tinubu: Give us Ibadan state before 2027

The newly crowned Olubadan of Ibadanland has called on President Bola Tinubu to facilitate the creation of Ibadan state from Oyo state before the end of his presidential term in 2027.

Rashidi Ladoja, who became the 44th Olubadan during his coronation ceremony on Friday in Ibadan, said the demand reflected the long-standing wishes of the ancient city’s people.

Speaking to thousands of Ibadan indigenes at the event, the monarch switched between Yoruba and English as he playfully asked the crowd to stand and appreciate the president “for acceding” to their request.

“Ibadan people, is that not the message? If that is the message, please stand up and appreciate the president,” Ladoja declared. “We are in a hurry for Ibadan state; we want it before 2027.”

In his remarks, President Tinubu praised Nigerians for their resilience amid the pains of his administration’s economic reforms.

“Today, I am honoured and very proud to give you the cheering news that the economy has turned the corner; there is a bright light at the end of the tunnel,” Tinubu said.

“Your suffering is a pain of a painful surgery, but it has returned to the moment of growth and prosperity that is awaiting us.”

The coronation drew a mix of political heavyweights and traditional rulers. Governors Lucky Aiyedatiwa (Ondo), Ademola Adeleke (Osun), and Biodun Oyebanji (Ekiti) were present, alongside Minister of Power Adebayo Adelabu, FIRS chairman Zacch Adedeji, former Ogun governor Ibikunle Amosun, and former Kano governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.

Also in attendance were the Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar, and the Alaafin of Oyo, Abimbola Owoade.

Can Ibadan state actually happen?

The call for Ibadan state comes as the National Assembly considers proposals for 31 new states in the ongoing constitutional amendment process.

However, creating a state in Nigeria is highly complex. Section 8 of the 1999 Constitution sets strict requirements, including approval by two-thirds of members of the National Assembly, state assemblies, and a successful referendum in the affected areas.

Crucially, the president does not have the constitutional power to unilaterally create a new state. And Nigeria has not created any new states since its return to democracy in 1999.