IJEBU STATE: Remo Matters Diaspora Coalition Demands Equity, Fair Representation

….Calls for Capital Location in Remo and Possible Renaming to ‘Ijebu-Remo State


In an appeal to Nigeria’s top political and traditional leaders, the Remo Matters Diaspora Coalition (RMDC) has urged for fairness, inclusivity and equity in the ongoing push for the creation of Ijebu State from the existing Ogun State. The group, representing concerned Remo indigenes abroad, emphasized the need for a balanced approach that ensures Remo’s identity, contributions, and political representation are not sidelined.

In an open letter addressed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Senate President, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Governor Dapo Abiodun, Senator Gbenga Daniel, Ogun State House of Assembly Speaker, and traditional rulers—including the Akarigbo and Paramount Ruler of Remoland—the coalition outlined key concerns and recommendations to ensure the new state reflects the interests of all stakeholders.

The advocacy for an Ijebu State dates back to the colonial era when Ijebu Province was among the 20 provinces established in 1923. Despite its economic and historical significance, it remains one of the few old provinces yet to attain statehood. While the move to create a new state has gained fresh momentum under the leadership of Senator Gbenga Daniel, the RMDC insists that Remo, which was part of the former Ijebu Province, must be fully integrated into the planning and structure of the proposed state. Their key demands include;

State Name and Capital Location

While acknowledging the historical significance of the name Ijebu State, the RMDC argues that it does not fully represent the Remo people, who have contributed immensely to the region’s cultural and economic growth. They propose three options:

Retaining the name Ijebu State but locating the capital in Ikenne or Sagamu, two major commercial and industrial hubs of the region.

Renaming the state Ijebu-Remo State to reflect the two key components of the former Ijebu Province.

If equity cannot be assured, advocating for an independent Remo State, possibly incorporating the Ikorodu axis to strengthen economic viability.

The coalition strongly suggests Ikenne as a strategic choice for the capital, citing its historical significance as the hometown of Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Nigeria’s foremost nationalist and former Premier of the Western Region. Ikenne’s central location between Ijebu and Remo, they argue, would ensure balanced development.

Local Government Distribution and Representation

A major point of contention is the proposed allocation of 13 Local Government Areas (LGAs) to Ijebu and only 6 to Remo, a disparity the RMDC describes as structurally unjust. They advocated for the subdivision of Remo LGAs to increase political representation, including:

Splitting Sagamu LGA into six LGAs

Splitting Ikenne LGA into three LGAs

Splitting Remo North LGA into three LGAs

This, they argue, will ensure fair governance, resource distribution, and economic growth for Remo communities.

Rotational Leadership Agreement
To prevent marginalization, the coalition calls for a formal agreement ensuring that key state positions—such as Governor, Speaker of the House of Assembly, and other leadership roles—rotate between Ijebu and Remo in a structured manner.

Cultural Heritage and Identity Preservation
The group stresses the importance of preserving Remo’s distinct cultural identity, traditions, and historical significance within the new state. They propose the establishment of a cultural framework that equally celebrates both Ijebu and Remo heritage, ensuring unity while respecting diversity.

The RMDC commended Senator Gbenga Daniel for his efforts in championing the bill for Ijebu State creation but urged him to ensure that Remo’s interests are adequately represented in all discussions and decisions. They also appealed to traditional rulers, community leaders, and other stakeholders to support a fair resolution that does not sideline any group.

While reaffirming their support for the creation of a new state, the RMDC maintains that the process must be built on fairness and unity, ensuring a state that serves as a model for inclusivity and development. Whether the outcome leads to an Ijebu State, an Ijebu-Remo State, or even a separate Remo State, they insist that all deliberations must consider equity, cultural identity, and sustainable governance.

“This is not just a political decision—it is a legacy for future generations. We must get it right,” the coalition stated.

As the conversation on state creation continues, all eyes are on the decision-makers to ensure a just and inclusive outcome for both Ijebu and Remo people.

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