Ijebu, Remo Unite for State Creation as Awujale, Akarigbo Back Bill

The Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, has called for unity among the Ijebu and Remo people to actualize the long-anticipated creation of Ijebu State. 

The call was made during a stakeholder meeting held at his palace in Ijebu Ode on Thursday, December 18, 2024.

Speaking at the meeting, the monarch highlighted the historic significance of the bill for Ijebu State’s creation, recently introduced by Senator Gbenga Daniel, representing Ogun East. 

Oba Adetona expressed optimism about the bill’s progress, noting it had passed its first and second readings in the National Assembly.

“This is a unique opportunity for Ijebu and Remo people to demonstrate unity and purpose. Of all the 20 provinces created in 1923, only Ijebu Province has yet to achieve statehood,” Oba Adetona lamented.

The Awujale also praised the federal legislature and President Tinubu for supporting the bill. “We thank Senator Gbenga Daniel for his visionary leadership and President Tinubu for creating an enabling environment for our aspirations. This is our time to make Ijebu State a reality,” he added.

Oba Adetona emphasized the proposed state’s viability, citing its rich economic and infrastructural potential. 

He pointed to existing industrial estates, educational institutions, and the international airport located between Ilisan and Iperu Remo as foundations for sustainable growth.

Representatives of the Akarigbo and Paramount Ruler of Remoland, Oba Babatunde Ajayi, were also in attendance, with the Elepe of Epe, Sagamu, Oba Adewale Osiberu, delivering a message of solidarity.

 “The creation of Ijebu State is a shared dream that reflects our collective identity. Let us unite to make this a reality,” Oba Osiberu stated.

Senator Gbenga Daniel underscored the extensive groundwork that preceded the bill, explaining that years of consultations and negotiations had laid the foundation for its introduction.

“This initiative builds on decades of dialogue about Ijebu and Remo’s shared aspirations. We can no longer allow disagreements over the name or capital to delay our progress,” Senator Daniel stated.

The senator also noted the economic and historical significance of the proposed state, describing it as the last of the 24 old provinces yet to achieve statehood. “The creation of Ijebu State is not just a matter of fairness but a recognition of our economic and cultural contributions to Nigeria,” he said.

The meeting concluded with a communiqué jointly signed by stakeholders, which outlined the feasibility of the proposed state. 

The communiqué highlighted the region’s preparedness, citing infrastructure such as the Flowergate Industrial Estate and international sports stadia as assets that would support the state’s development.

The communiqué called on legislators and stakeholders to rally behind the initiative and praised the leadership of the royal fathers for their steadfast commitment to the cause. It also urged the formation of committees to harmonize lingering issues and accelerate advocacy efforts.

“This renewed push for Ijebu State has rekindled hope among our people. We are closer than ever to realizing this long-held dream,” the communiqué concluded.