New State Creation: Remo and Ijebu Stakeholders Forge Harmonisation Committee

In a significant step towards creating a new state from the old Ijebu Province in Ogun State, major stakeholders gathered in Sagamu, Remo, on Friday, January 17, 2025.

The meeting, hosted by Oba Dr. Babatunde Adewale Ajayi, the Akarigbo and Paramount Ruler of Remoland, addressed the long-standing goal of establishing a new state by forming a harmonisation committee to resolve existing disagreements.

The meeting, which brought together influential leaders, traditional rulers, and key political figures, marked a renewed push to achieve statehood, with stakeholders united in their vision for progress. In his opening speech, Oba Ajayi stressed the need for unity among the various communities, saying, “We are gathered here today for a common cause, which is to actualise the long-standing dream of creating a state from the old Ijebu Province.”

The Akarigbo also addressed past challenges, including disagreements over documents related to creating the new state, but urged stakeholders to put aside differences and work collaboratively. He remarked, “Let us start afresh in an atmosphere of conviviality and brotherhood. We will achieve more together, based on equity, fairness, and justice.”

The meeting saw the attendance of prominent figures, including Oba Lawrence Jaiyeoba Adebajo, the Orimolusi of Ijebu-Igbo, who represented the Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Dr. Sikiru Kayode Adetona. Otunba Gbenga Daniel, a former governor and Senator for Ogun-East delivered a keynote address in which he emphasised the significance of creating a new state for future generations. He also reassured attendees that he had no intentions of becoming the governor of the proposed state, focusing instead on the importance of collective progress.

Otunba Daniel highlighted the pressing need for unity, noting that previous attempts at state creation had faltered due to disagreements. He cautioned that while the process would be complex, it was achievable with concerted effort and urged stakeholders to avoid repeating past mistakes. The Senator also praised President Tinubu’s efforts in pushing forward the Southwest Development Commission bill, which he believes will aid the state creation process.

A minute of silence was observed in honour of the late Hon. Adewunmi Onanuga (Ijaya), a respected figure whose passing was deeply felt by those present.

A seven-member committee was formed to further progress the statehood campaign, comprising representatives from the Remo and Ijebu zones. The committee’s role is to address critical issues such as the naming of the proposed state, the selection of its capital, the distribution of local government areas, and other key considerations. The committee reports to their respective traditional rulers within a month, ensuring that all concerns are properly addressed.

This development follows a similar meeting held in December 2024 at the palace of the Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, where the groundwork for the new state was laid. As the process progresses, stakeholders are optimistic that the harmonisation committee will create a framework that resolves the contentious issues surrounding the state’s creation, paving the way for the new state to become a reality.

Establishing this committee marks a crucial turning point in the quest for statehood, with Remo and Ijebu communities working together to create a fair and unified approach that will benefit all involved.