The Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, has renewed calls for unity among the people of Ijebu and Remoland to realise the long-awaited creation of Ijebu State.
Addressing stakeholders at a meeting held at his palace in Ijebu Ode on Thursday, the monarch expressed optimism that the bill introduced by Senator Gbenga Daniel for the state’s creation offers a fresh opportunity that must not be missed.
Oba Adetona lamented the disunity that thwarted previous efforts to establish Ijebu State, noting, “Of all the 20 provinces created in 1923, only Ijebu Province has yet to achieve state creation.”
He emphasised the importance of collaboration, stating, “Ijebu and Remo people are one, but political divisions have sometimes made us forget our shared heritage. Now, we must close ranks and work as one.”
The Awujale commended the National Assembly for advancing the bill through its first and second readings, urging stakeholders to remain resolute.
“We are grateful to Senator Gbenga Daniel for sponsoring this bill and to President Bola Tinubu for his support. This is our time, and we must not let it slip away,” he said.
Highlighting the proposed state’s economic viability, the royal father noted its rich resources, including industrial estates, educational institutions, and mineral deposits.
He added, “Our state already has an international airport located between Ilisan and Iperu Remo, ensuring that we would begin on a solid foundation when this dream becomes a reality.”
The meeting also had in attendance representatives of the Akarigbo and Paramount Ruler of Remoland, Oba Babatunde Ajayi, who was represented by the Elepe of Epe, Sagamu, Oba Adewale Osiberu.
Oba Ajayi’s delegation pledged unwavering support for the state creation effort, with the Elepe of Epe calling for “unity of purpose to ensure this opportunity is not wasted again.”
Daniel, representing Ogun East, detailed the extensive groundwork behind the bill.
“This initiative builds on decades of discussions about the creation of Ijebu or Ijebu-Remo State. The disagreements over the name and capital must no longer hold us back.
“We have everything needed to make this a reality,” Daniel said.
He underscored the area’s economic potential and historical significance, reiterating that it is the last of the 24 old provinces without state status.
Communiqué, resolutions
The meeting concluded with a communiqué jointly signed by stakeholders, affirming the feasibility of Ijebu State and calling for accelerated efforts to achieve its creation.
It highlighted existing infrastructure, such as the Flowergate Industrial Estate and international sports stadia, as evidence of the region’s preparedness.
The communique appealed to legislators and stakeholders to “rally support for the creation of this new state” and praised the efforts of the royal fathers for their leadership.
It also urged committees to harmonise outstanding issues and expedite advocacy and mobilisation efforts.
This renewed push for Ijebu State, they noted, has rekindled hopes of achieving a long-held aspiration, with stakeholders united in their determination to see the dream become a reality.
