Senate President Godswill Akpabio Hints at “Incoming” Ibadan State, Pledges Senate Consideration

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has signaled that the long-standing agitation for the creation of Ibadan State could receive serious consideration in the National Assembly.

Akpabio made the encouraging statement on Sunday during a courtesy visit to the Bodija residence of Oba Rashidi Ladoja, the newly installed 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland. He was accompanied by a delegation of senators.

Addressing the monarch, Akpabio declared, “Ibadan is an incoming state, the only state in Nigeria seeking creation based on popular demand.” He assured that the demand would be formally examined on the floor of the Senate.

Praise for the Olubadan and a Call for Action
The Senate President praised Oba Ladoja’s installation as a blessing for Ibadan and the South-West, citing his extensive experience as a former senator, governor of Oyo State, and successful entrepreneur. He expressed confidence that Ladoja’s reign would bring “innovation and renewed vitality” to the traditional institution and significant progress for the people.

In his response, the Olubadan reiterated his core mandate from his subjects. “My subjects have given me the mandate to represent their interests on all issues, including the creation of Ibadan state,” Ladoja stated. He revealed he had already presented the request to President Bola Tinubu during his installation ceremony and urged Akpabio to leverage his office to ensure its actualization.

The monarch also seized the opportunity to call for the constitutional recognition of traditional institutions across Nigeria, a move he argued would prevent state governors from having the power to unilaterally remove traditional rulers.