Ibadan State Creation Sparks Debate as Bill Passes Second Reading

The push for the creation of Ibadan State has stirred mixed reactions across the Southwest following the recent call by the newly installed Olubadan, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, during his coronation ceremony in Ibadan, Oyo State.

Oba Ladoja appealed to President Bola Tinubu to prioritize the creation of the state, saying, “My people sent me a message to Mr President. They said the creation of Ibadan State is their priority.”

The proposed Ibadan State is expected to be carved out of the present Oyo State and parts of Ondo State. The bill, sponsored by Hon. Abass Adigun, representing Ibadan North-East/Ibadan South-East Federal Constituency, has already passed its second reading at the House of Representatives — a crucial step toward amending the 1999 Constitution to recognize Ibadan as a full-fledged state.

Hon. Adigun described the move as a “monumental step toward equitable development and true federalism,” arguing that Ibadan has the population, economy, and landmass to qualify for statehood. He also pointed out that a single local government in Ibadan is larger than three combined local governments in Bayelsa State.

However, not everyone agrees with the timing or necessity of the move. Hon. Akindele Adeniyi, Senior Special Assistant to Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa on Mobilization, believes the Southwest should focus on stabilizing existing structures and improving infrastructure rather than creating new states.

“We have six states in the Southwest already. What we should be doing now is ensuring development and stability, not carving out new territories,” Adeniyi said.

On the other hand, the Lagos State APC Publicity Secretary, Seye Oladejo, supports the idea, highlighting its potential benefits. According to him, Ibadan State could help correct the concentration of political power in Oyo State, give Ibadan a distinct political voice, and strengthen the Southwest’s influence at the national level.

Oladejo also emphasized that Ibadan’s industrial heritage positions it as an economic powerhouse, capable of driving new investments and creating job opportunities for the region.

As public hearings and consultations continue, the debate over Ibadan State’s creation reflects broader questions about Nigeria’s federal structure — balancing local aspirations with national unity and development priorities.