Ijebu State: Awujale, Akarigbo, Daniel sue for unity

The Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, has called for a united front in the renewed push for the creation of Ijebu State.

Speaking during a stakeholders’ meeting at his palace on Thursday, Oba Adetona lamented that of the about 20 provinces established in 1923, Ijebu Province remains the only one yet to attain statehood, blaming previous failures on disunity.

Highlighting the introduction of a bill for Ijebu State by Senator Gbenga Daniel, who represents Ogun East, Oba Adetona urged both Ijebu and Remo people to come together to ensure this opportunity is not lost again.

The meeting included traditional rulers from Ijebu and Remoland, with the Elepe of Epe, Sagamu, Oba Adewale Osiberu, representing the Akarigbo and Paramount Ruler of Remoland, Oba Adewale Babatunde Ajayi. Other dignitaries present included Senator Gbenga Daniel, former Deputy Governors Senator Gbenga Kaka and Chief Yetunde Onanuga, Senator Lekan Mustapha, Hon. Adesegun Adekoya, and members of the Ogun State House of Assembly.

Oba Adetona stressed that Ijebu and Remo people share a common heritage, saying, “Ijebu and Remo people are one, but politics sometimes makes people forget the bond that binds us. However, we now have a unity of purpose in the desire for a new state.”

The paramount ruler highlighted the economic viability of the proposed Ijebu State, citing resources, infrastructure, and an international airport situated between Ilisan and Iperu Remo in Ikenne Local Government.

He thanked President Bola Tinubu, Senator Daniel, and others working toward the realisation of the state. “Let us embrace this opportunity with gratitude,” he said.

Speaking on behalf of the Akarigbo, Oba Osiberu reaffirmed the support of Remoland, urging all stakeholders to ensure this chance is not wasted.

Senator Daniel explained that his proposed bill was based on historical documents, addressing past disagreements over the name and capital of the state. “We cannot continue to cheat ourselves over issues we can resolve among ourselves,” he said.

Daniel noted that of the old provinces, only Ijebu has not achieved statehood, despite its economic viability and abundant resources.

At the meeting’s conclusion, a communiqué read by Oba Osiberu and Oba Kayode Adefuwape, the Dagburewe of Idowa, emphasised the desirability and viability of Ijebu State, noting its infrastructure, industrial estates, and natural resources.

The communiqué also called for advocacy and support from the National and State Assemblies and urged committees to expedite efforts to harmonise any outstanding issues.

The stakeholders expressed appreciation to Oba Adetona, Oba Ajayi, and other royal fathers for their leadership in this initiative, urging unity and dedication to achieving the goal of Ijebu State.