Stakeholders from Ijebu Province form a harmonisation committee to address disputes and advance the creation of a new state in Nigeria
In a renewed bid to achieve the creation of a new state from the former Ijebu Province, major stakeholders have resolved to establish a harmonisation committee to address lingering differences.
Also read: Aare Adetola EmmanuelKing shines bright as Remo Day’s “Man of Steeze”
The decision was reached on Friday during a consultative meeting held at the palace of the Akarigbo of Remoland, Oba Babatunde Adewale Ajayi.
The committee, which comprises seven representatives each from Remo and Ijebu zones, is tasked with resolving disputes that have hindered progress in the past.
This development follows a similar meeting held at the palace of the Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, in December 2024.
Dignitaries, royal fathers from Remoland, and an emissary from the Awujale of Ijebuland attended Friday’s meeting.
All stakeholders reaffirmed their shared belief that creating a state from the colonial Ijebu Province is long overdue.
Senator Gbenga Daniel, representing Ogun East Senatorial District, emphasised the importance of unity among leaders. He warned against unnecessary acrimony that derailed similar efforts in the past.
“The process of creating a new state under the Nigerian Constitution is not a tea party, but it is achievable with determination and concerted effort,” Daniel remarked.
In December 2024, Senator Daniel sponsored a Bill for the creation of a new state from the old Ijebu Province. The Bill passed its first reading, formally initiating the state creation process.
However, the initiative has faced agitation, particularly over the proposed state’s name and capital. Remo youths have expressed concerns that the current proposal might overshadow Remo’s history and interests under Ijebu dominance.
The newly formed harmonisation committee aims to address these concerns by presenting a unified and generally acceptable position that will advance the state creation process.
Friday’s meeting reinforced the commitment of Ijebu and Remo leaders to bridge divides and work towards a collective goal.
Also read: Aare Adetola EmmanuelKing shines bright as Remo Day’s “Man of Steeze”
Stakeholders expressed optimism that with cooperation and determination, the long-standing aspiration for a new state would become a reality.