Senator Gbenga Daniel, a former Governor of Ogun State and current representative of Ogun East in the Senate, has vowed to immortalise the late Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, by spearheading the creation of a new Ijebu State. Daniel made the pledge during a high‑profile stakeholders’ meeting, held at the Awujale’s palace in Ijebu‑Ode in December 2024, where traditional rulers and community leaders from Ijebu and Remoland gathered to reaffirm the unity required to actualise the long‑standing state‑creation project
Reflecting on the historical injustice, Daniel noted that although Nigeria’s colonial administration established around 24 provinces in 1923, Ijebu Province remained the only one yet to attain statehood. He stressed that previous failures were tied to disunity over critical issues like naming and the location of the state capital
At the meeting, Oba Adetona underscored the region’s economic viability, pointing to its rich resources, major industrial estates, educational institutions, and the presence of an international airport located between Ilisan and Iperu Remo. The ruler appealed to Ijebu and Remo communities to unite behind the common goal of securing autonomy, and expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu, Senator Daniel, and others for their support
Senator Daniel explained that his sponsorship of the “Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (Sixth Alteration) Bill, 2024 (Creation of Ijebu State)” at the National Assembly was informed by robust historical and economic research. He urged people from both zones to set aside political differences and commit to a harmonised plan for state creation
To address lingering disagreements, particularly over the proposed name “Ijebu” or “Remo‑Ijebu” and the capital location, a 14‑member harmonisation committee with equal representation from Remo and Ijebu was instituted to streamline advocacy and mobilise public and legislative support
Daniel further backed Ijebu‑Ode as the logical capital of the prospective state, citing democratic principle, the majority wishes of the six Ijebu local government areas should guide the decision over Remo preferences for Sagamu. He reaffirmed that, as democracy operates, the majority’s voice should prevail, though minority perspectives remain valuable
In his commitment, Daniel declared: “We will immortalise his Majesty through the realisation of Ijebu State.” He said the campaign is not just a tribute, but a step toward equity, regional development, and historical correction—ensuring that the Awujale’s legacy endures in the institutional recognition of Ijebu autonomy
The renewed push, backed by the Awujale, the Akarigbo of Remoland, Senator Daniel, and grassroots champions, now proceeds with increased momentum. Coordinated advocacy, legislative strategy, and public engagement continue to shape this people‑driven initiative aimed at carving a prosperous, autonomous Ijebu State from the old Ijebu Province
