Date: September 26, 2025 Location: Ibadan, Oyo State Oba Rashidi Ladoja Crowned 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Renews Call for Ibadan State Ibadan, the cultural heartbeat of Oyo State, was aglow with celebration today as His Imperial Majesty, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, was officially crowned the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland. The coronation ceremony, held at the historic Mapo Hall, drew a distinguished gathering of traditional rulers, political leaders, and eminent personalities from across Nigeria. Among the dignitaries present was the Iyaloja-General, who had actively participated in pre-coronation activities. She offered heartfelt prayers for peace, unity, and prosperity under the reign of Oba Ladoja. In his inaugural address, the newly crowned monarch made a passionate appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging him to prioritize the creation of Ibadan State before the end of his administration. Speaking in Yoruba, Oba Ladoja conveyed the collective desire of his people: > “My people sent me a message to Mr President,” he said. “They said the creation of Ibadan State is their priority.” Governor Seyi Makinde, who presented the Staff of Office, commended the seamless and uncontested succession process, describing it as a testament to Ibadan’s enduring traditions. He expressed optimism that Oba Ladoja’s reign would herald a new chapter of peace and development for Ibadanland and Oyo State. > “The joy and excitement that fill Ibadan today remind us of the importance of upholding our cherished traditions,” Governor Makinde remarked. “It is my prayer that the reign of Oba Adewolu Ladoja will bring lasting development to our people.” The ceremony was graced by an array of high-profile guests, including: - President Bola Ahmed Tinubu - Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III - Former Governors: Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso (Kano), Olagunsoye Oyinlola (Osun), Kayode Fayemi (Ekiti), Senator Ibikunle Amosun, and others President Tinubu, in his address, congratulated Oba Ladoja, whom he fondly referred to as a longtime friend. He shared warm recollections of their shared history and prayed for Ibadan to experience unprecedented favour and progress under the new monarch’s leadership. The coronation of Oba Ladoja not only marks a significant moment in Ibadan’s traditional institution but also reignites the conversation around regional representation and state creation—an aspiration deeply rooted in the hearts of the people of Ibadanland. God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria God bless the great people of Oyo State God President Bola Ahmed Tinubu God bless the Iyaloja-General Prince Emmanuel Odunayo Ikusagba Reporting for Iyaloja-General’s Media