Senate President Godswill Akpabio has expressed optimism over the possible creation of Ibadan State, describing it as a state backed by widespread public support.
Akpabio made the remark on Sunday during a courtesy visit to the private residence of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.
The Senate President noted that the demand for Ibadan State stands out among state creation agitations in the country, stressing that it is driven by popular demand.
“Ibadan is an incoming state, and perhaps the only one in Nigeria being canvassed by the people themselves,” he said, while assuring that the request would be given due consideration at the Senate.
The visit followed earlier calls by Oba Ladoja for the creation of Ibadan State, which he made during his installation as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland. The monarch had appealed to President Bola Tinubu to ensure the creation of the state before 2027, shortly after receiving his Staff of Office from Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde.
Akpabio, who was accompanied by Senators Adamu Aliero, Yahaya Abdullahi, Sharafadeen Ali and other ranking lawmakers, described Oba Ladoja’s ascension to the throne as a positive development for Ibadanland and the South-West.
He said the choice of Ladoja as Olubadan reflected the wisdom of the Ibadan people, noting his background as a former senator, governor of Oyo State, entrepreneur and administrator.
According to him, Oba Ladoja’s experience and nationalist outlook would bring innovation and progress to the traditional institution, adding that Ibadan would witness notable development during his reign.
In his response, the Olubadan thanked the Senate President and members of his delegation for the visit and restated the demand for the creation of Ibadan State.
He said he had been mandated by his people to pursue their collective interests, including the establishment of Ibadan State, adding that the request had earlier been presented to President Tinubu during his installation ceremony.
Oba Ladoja also called for constitutional recognition of the traditional institution, urging the National Assembly to consider amendments that would prevent the removal of traditional rulers by state governors.
