A bill aimed at creating a new Oyo State, with Ogbomoso designated as its capital, has successfully passed its second reading in the House of Representatives. The proposed legislation, introduced on February 27, 2024, is championed by Hon. Olamijuwonlo Ayodeji Alao Akala, who represents the Ogbomoso North, South, and Oriire Federal Constituency.
This bill seeks to amend the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (Amendment Bill), 2024, specifically modifying Part 1 of the First Schedule to establish two new states: Ibadan and Oyo. Ibadan would have Ibadan city as its capital, while Ogbomoso is proposed as the capital for the new Oyo State.
Hon. Akala outlined that the new Ibadan State would consist of 11 local governments in Ibadan and three in Ibarapa, covering Akinyele, Egbeda, Ibadan North, Ibadan South-West, Ibadan South-East, Ibadan North-East, Ibadan North-West, Lagelu, Oluyole, Ona Ara, Ido, Ibarapa East, Ibarapa Central, and Ibarapa North.
Conversely, the New Oyo State would include Ogbomoso as its capital, integrating local governments such as Afijio, Atiba, Atisbo, Ogo Oluwa, Irepo, Iseyin, Itesiwaju, Iwajowa, Kajola, Ori Ire, Olorunsogo, Oorelope, Oyo East, Oyo West, Saki East, Saki West, Surulere, Ogbomoso North, and Ogbomoso South.
In his argument, Hon. Akala highlighted the cultural significance of creating the state of Ibadan. He stated, “Establishing Ibadan as a state would honor its legacy and create a platform for preserving and promoting the unique Yoruba culture and traditions that are intrinsic to the region. This move not only benefits the citizens of Ibadan but also contributes positively to Nigeria’s national development. Autonomy in state governance would enable Ibadan to leverage its cultural and historical assets, which are vital to Nigeria’s identity.”
He emphasized the importance of diversifying development focus to Ogbomoso, which is currently the second-largest city in Oyo State after Ibadan. He argued that this change could stimulate infrastructure development and economic growth in areas that have previously been neglected. “Ogbomoso’s designation as the state capital is justified by its significant historical role in Yoruba history and its strategic location within Oyo State.”
Acknowledging the rapid population growth and urbanization in Ogbomoso, Hon. Akala asserted that the city is poised to effectively function as the capital. He stressed the necessity for balanced regional development, asserting that positioning Ogbomoso as the capital would facilitate this goal.
“Ogbomoso stands as a symbol of regional unity and progress,” he noted. “Its geographic location is advantageous, with well-established road and rail networks linking it to major cities, thus serving as a connector between the northern and southwestern regions of Nigeria. With a rich history in commerce and education, Ogbomoso demonstrates substantial growth potential and is well-equipped for administrative and political responsibilities, bolstered by ongoing infrastructure development and industrialization.”
