The proposed creation of Ijebu State from Ogun State has hit a roadblock as stakeholders clash over the location of the state capital and growing political tensions between Governor Dapo Abiodun and former Governor Gbenga Daniel.
The discord emerged following a recent stakeholder meeting at the palace of the Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, where representatives from both Ijebu and Remo regions gathered to discuss the statehood initiative.
At the heart of the controversy is the proposed state capital. While some advocate for Ijebu-Ode, Remo leaders are pushing back, citing concerns about representation and historical identity. “The reality is that Remo is saying they are not Ijebu, and we are just realizing it now,” a source close to the matter revealed.
Several compromise proposals have emerged, including placing the capital in a Remo town while keeping the “Ijebu State” name, or adopting “Ijebu-Remo State” with Ijebu-Ode as capital. The Remo delegation is also demanding a minimum of seven local governments to ensure fair representation.
The political landscape has further complicated matters. Governor Dapo Abiodun’s absence from the December 20 stakeholder meeting has raised eyebrows, with analysts attributing it to his strained relationship with Senator Gbenga Daniel, a key advocate for the new state.
The Elepe of Epe, Oba Adewale Osiberu, representing Remo interests, has faced criticism from constituents who accuse him of “selling out” their interests. In response, Remo leaders have formed a Strategic Implementation and Advocacy Committee and are collecting one million signatures to support their demands.
Economic considerations also loom large, as Ogun East, which would form part of the new state, currently houses most of the region’s economic drivers. Critics worry this could lead to economic imbalances in the proposed state.
“When politics comes into play, the bond that binds us together is often ignored,” the Awujale noted during the meeting, urging both regions to unite for the common goal. A seven-member committee has been established to address the contentious issues, but the success of the Ijebu State bid now hinges on finding common ground between the competing interests.
Kunmi ‘The Super Cat’ is a massage therapist, an entertainment and erotic content writer. She is a pop culture enthusiast!
