Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has finally backed the creation of Ijebu State during a crucial meeting with Awujale. The Peoples Gazette published an exclusive story revealing this.
President Tinubu Assures Awujale of Support for Ijebu State Creation
President Bola Tinubu has assured the Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, of his support for creating Ijebu State from Ogun State, despite criticisms about its feasibility amid Nigeria’s economic challenges, Peoples Gazette reports.
During a meeting at the president’s Bourdillon residence on January 5, Mr. Tinubu promised to endorse the proposed state. Sources revealed that the Awujale highlighted the historical injustice of Ijebu being the only colonial-era province yet to achieve statehood, unlike Oyo and Sokoto, which have been divided into multiple states.
“The president quickly expressed his support without much debate,” a source disclosed. However, it remains unclear how he will handle proposals for other states currently under discussion. The meeting also mentioned Anioma from Delta State as another potential new state being considered in the ongoing constitutional amendment.
Legislative Push for Ijebu State
The journey toward Ijebu State’s creation gained momentum in November 2024 when Senator Gbenga Daniel of Ogun East introduced a bill in the National Assembly. Titled the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (Sixth Alteration) Bill, 2024 (Creation of Ijebu State), the proposal seeks constitutional changes to facilitate the state’s creation.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio advanced the bill, which is now progressing through legislative stages. Meanwhile, discussions on creating up to 20 new states could potentially increase Nigeria’s federating units from 36 to 56.
Concerns and Criticisms
Some Nigerians have criticized the timing of the proposal, citing the country’s economic struggles, including poverty, inflation, debt, and poor infrastructure. Critics argue that expanding states could be politically motivated, as new states might support President Tinubu’s reelection bid. Concerns have also been raised about potential conflicts over resources and boundaries within a new state.
Ijebu Stakeholders’ Confidence
Awujale Adetona dismissed these concerns, emphasizing that Ijebu State’s economic viability could drive rapid development through internally generated revenue and federal allocations. In December 2024, the Awujale, alongside the Akarigbo of Remo, Adewale Ajayi, hosted traditional leaders and stakeholders to discuss logistics for the new state, including its capital, local government areas, and other administrative structures.
Adetona highlighted the region’s readiness, citing major industrial estates, an international airport under construction, and potential for a deep-sea port. “Ijebu Province has the infrastructure to sustain itself, including Flowergate Industrial Estate and two international sports stadia in Ijebu Ode and Sagamu,” he stated.
Looking Ahead
The proposed Ijebu State remains a significant topic in Nigeria’s political discourse. While it faces challenges, proponents argue that its creation would ensure equity and accelerate regional development.
