Senate President Godswill Akpabio has thrown his weight behind the creation of Ibadan State, describing it as the only state creation proposal in Nigeria driven by widespread popular demand.
Akpabio made the statement during a courtesy visit to the private residence of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, a few months after the monarch publicly appealed to President Bola Tinubu to create Ibadan State.
Oba Ladoja, who became the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland following the death of his predecessor in July 2025 at the age of 90, had reiterated the request during the presentation of his Staff of Office by Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde. At the event, the monarch urged the president to ensure the creation of the state before 2027.
Speaking during the visit, Akpabio said the matter would be given serious consideration in the Senate. He described Oba Ladoja as “a blessing to Ibadanland and the entire South-West,” noting that his background as a former governor and senator positions him well to advance the interests of his people.
The Senate President was accompanied by several lawmakers, including Senators Adamu Aliero, Yahaya Abdullahi, and Sharafadeen Ali.
In his response, Oba Ladoja thanked Akpabio and his delegation for the visit and once again appealed for the creation of Ibadan State. “My people want Ibadan State, and I urge you to use your office to ensure its actualisation,” the monarch said.
He also called for constitutional recognition of traditional institutions, arguing that such provisions would prevent the arbitrary removal of traditional rulers by state governors.
