Two prominent traditional rulers, the Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, and the Akarigbo of Remoland, Oba Babatunde Ajayi, have pledged to work together to establish a new Ijebu State from the current Ogun State in a landmark meeting at the Awujale Palace in Ijebu Ode.
The high-stakes gathering brought together key stakeholders from Ogun East Senatorial District, including traditional rulers, industrialists, politicians, and religious leaders. During the meeting, both monarchs emphasized that the creation of Ijebu State is long overdue, noting that the old Ijebu Province remains the only one among Nigeria’s original 24 provinces yet to evolve into a state.
Senator Gbenga Daniel, representing Ogun East, presented a comprehensive memorandum to the Senate supporting the state’s creation. He highlighted that the proposed Ijebu State, encompassing the current Ogun East Senatorial District, possesses all necessary requirements for statehood, including substantial population, natural resources, and economic infrastructure.
The proposed state’s economic viability is supported by existing infrastructure, including the rapidly expanding Flowergate Industrial Estate, an international airport, potential for a deep-sea port, and two international sports stadiums. Additionally, the region boasts significant deposits of tar sands (solid crude oil), agricultural estates, and various mineral resources.
To advance this initiative, a technical committee comprising distinguished personalities from both Ijebu and Remo has been established. The monarchs signed a communique appealing to members of the National and State Assemblies to support their cause, marking a new chapter in the long-standing campaign for Ijebu statehood.
“Ijebu and Remo people are one,” declared the Awujale, emphasizing the importance of unity in achieving their shared goal. “With this stakeholders’ meeting, I am optimistic that we will get what we desire.”
Seunmanuel Faleye is a brand and communications strategist. He is a covert writer and an overt creative head. He publishes Apple’s Bite International Magazine.
