… Olubadan call for the creation of Ibadan State

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Friday described the coronation of His Imperial Majesty, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, as a historic moment that reflects the enduring legacy of Yoruba tradition and Nigeria’s cultural heritage.

Speaking at the ceremony in Ibadan, Oyo State, where Governor Seyi Makinde presented the staff of office to the new monarch, President Tinubu said it was a great honor to witness the historic event.

“I deeply enjoyed the moment and I cherish the history made today. I appreciate each and every one,” the president said.

“It is a great honor for me to be here as the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, to witness your coronation, to witness history, and to witness the legacy we share together for this country.”

The president prayed for the monarch’s reign to be long, prosperous, and impactful.

“Today, you ascend the throne of your forefathers. It is my prayer that you will live long and be celebrated as one of the rare gems of history to sit upon this exalted throne,” Tinubu said.

“It is my honor, my joy, and my pleasure to wish you many more years of joy, prosperity, and relevance in the service of democracy, in the making of history, and in your role as a father figure in Nigeria.”

Governor Seyi Makinde, in his remarks, emphasized that the coronation marked the end of lingering traditional disputes in Ibadanland and reaffirmed the importance of preserving Yoruba culture.

“As of today, all the traditional challenges are over,” Makinde said. “History was literally made today as the president landed at the Ibadan Airport. I join the people of Ibadanland in congratulating the new Olubadan, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja.”

In his first royal address, Oba Ladoja made a passionate call for the creation of an Ibadan State, expressing confidence that President Tinubu would support the request.

The coronation ceremony attracted dignitaries, traditional rulers, political leaders, and indigenes from across Nigeria, who converged on Ibadan to celebrate the installation of the new Olubadan.