Former Ogun State Governor and Senator representing Ogun East, Gbenga Daniel, has thrown his weight behind Ijebu-Ode as the capital of the proposed Ijebu State, declaring that the six Ijebu local governments’ majority support justifies the demand. The endorsement came during a press briefing at the Ijebu-Ode residence of the Awujale, Oba Sikiru Adetona, where stakeholders emphasized constitutional compliance and historical precedent for the statehood bid.
The Implementation Committee, led by Chief Chris Okunowo, disclosed that a revised memorandum proposing Ijebu State with Ijebu-Ode as its capital was submitted to the National Assembly on March 4, 2025, bearing signatures of all elected officials from the six Ijebu local governments. Okunowo argued that the Ijebu Province, established in 1923, remains the only colonial-era province yet to become a state, unlike counterparts such as Oyo and Kano.
Daniel, while acknowledging Remo’s parallel agitation for a “Remo-Ijebu State” with Sagamu as its capital, stressed democratic principles: “Six out of nine local governments is a clear majority. Minority will have their say, but the majority prevails.” He affirmed his role in facilitating self-determination efforts but left open the possibility of two states emerging from the region.
The proposal has sparked tensions, with Remo leaders accusing Daniel of partiality, though he cited infrastructure projects in Sagamu—including the Agro-Cargo Airport—as evidence of balanced representation. The Akarigbo of Remoland, Oba Adewale Ajayi, however, insists on equitable naming and capital selection.
With bills for the state’s creation already undergoing legislative review, the Ijebu committee cited constitutional criteria, including endorsement by two-thirds of elected representatives, as fulfilled. The bid now hinges on National Assembly approval and potential constitutional amendments.
