Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, the 44th Olubadan, has called on President Bola Tinubu to create the state of Ibadan.

Olubadan, who made the request after receiving the Staff of Office from Governor Seyi Makinde on Friday, added that Tinubu should make it happen before 2027.

“My people sent me a message to Mr President. Mr President, they said the creation of Ibadan State is their priority,” the monarch stated in Yoruba.

While speaking at the event, Governor Makinde called the emergence of Ladoja as the 44th traditional leader of the ancient city is a source of pride to the people.

“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.

“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 the reign of Oba Adewolu Ladoja will usher in lasting peace, unity, and greater progress for Ibadanland and for Oyo State as a whole,” he said.

In attendance were the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III; a former Kano State Governor, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso; a former Osun State Governor, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola; a former Ekiti State Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi; and a former Cross River State Governor, Donald Duke.