Akpabio backs creation of Ibadan State during visit to Olubadan

By Adejayan Gbenga –

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has expressed renewed support for the creation of Ibadan State, describing it as an initiative driven by overwhelming popular demand.

Akpabio made the remarks on Sunday during a courtesy visit to the private residence of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.

Oba Ladoja had earlier appealed to President Bola Tinubu to approve the creation of Ibadan State during his installation as the 44th Olubadan, following the death of his predecessor in July 2025.

Speaking during the visit, Akpabio said the request would be given due consideration at the National Assembly, noting that Ibadan’s case stands out because of the level of public support behind it.

“Ibadan is an incoming state. It is the only state in Nigeria whose creation is being driven by popular demand,” the Senate President said.

Akpabio, who was accompanied by Senators Adamu Aliero, Yahaya Abdullahi, Sharafadeen Ali and other senior lawmakers, described Oba Ladoja’s emergence as a blessing to Ibadanland and the South-West, citing his experience as a former senator and governor of Oyo State.

In his response, Oba Ladoja thanked the Senate President and his delegation for the visit and reiterated the demand for the creation of Ibadan State, saying he had already presented the request to President Tinubu during his installation.

The monarch also called for constitutional recognition of traditional institutions, urging amendments that would prevent governors from arbitrarily removing traditional rulers.