Senator Otunba Engr. Gbenga Daniel, former Ogun State Governor now representing Ogun East, has intensified calls for the creation of Ijebu State, framing it as overdue redress for what he termed “a century of unfairness” against the historic Ijebu province.
Addressing a National Assembly public hearing on Friday, July 4, 2025, Daniel presented his case for constitutional amendments that would pave the way for new states, with Ijebu State at the forefront of his advocacy.
As sponsor of the proposal, the senator emphasized that the demand transcends politics or ethnic considerations, positioning it instead as a matter of equity and federal balance.
“When you examine all the provinces that constituted Nigeria, you’ll find that the old Ijebu province stands alone as the only one without its own state,” Daniel stated.
He revealed that Senate Bill 564, formally introduced on November 27, 2024, seeks to amend the 1999 Constitution to facilitate Ijebu State’s creation—a move he says addresses the aspirations of Ogun East residents and corrects an imbalance dating back to colonial Nigeria.
“This isn’t about seeking special treatment. It’s about fairness, justice, and meeting constitutional requirements,” the senator explained.
Daniel expressed appreciation for the National Assembly’s inclusive constitutional review approach and specifically acknowledged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s backing.
“Without the support of President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, this wouldn’t be achievable. His dedication to national unity and advancement will endure,” he remarked, while also thanking the joint Senate and House committees for their consideration.
Economic Case for Statehood
Moving beyond historical arguments, Daniel highlighted the region’s economic strength, noting that the Ijebu area already contributes substantially to Ogun State’s revenue.
He cited several major assets within the proposed state territory:
• An international agro-cargo airport • The developing Olokola Deep Sea Port • Established industrial zones and multinational operations • The internationally recognized Ojude Oba Festival, which generates significant economic activity
“This region accounts for a considerable share of Ogun State’s internally generated revenue,” Daniel observed.
He connected state creation to African governance principles emphasizing localized administration, particularly given the area’s expanding demographics.
“Our young and growing population already surpasses that of multiple existing Nigerian states,” he noted, arguing that a new state would accelerate progress in education, commerce, agriculture, logistics, and cultural preservation.
Broader Constitutional Reforms
Daniel also advocated for amendments enabling Nigeria’s Sovereign Wealth Fund and related investment bodies to function as fully empowered constitutional entities.
He contended that excessive revenue centralization has constrained economic diversification and strategic planning.
“Prosperity requires more than political will. The constitution must allow investment institutions to operate effectively without obstacles,” he said.
Concluding his presentation, Daniel appealed to legislators and citizens to back the proposal based on national interest rather than political calculation.
“I urge support for these amendments not for individual advantage, but for Nigeria’s prosperity, for fairness and equity, and above all, for our nation’s development.”
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