By Oyero Olurin
The proposal to create Ijebu State by carving it out of Ogun State has been a topic of interest in the political landscape recently.
The idea aims to recognize the unique cultural heritage and historical significance of the Ijebu people, who have long sought administrative autonomy.
The movement for the creation of Ijebu State dates back several decades, with various groups and leaders advocating for its realization. In recent times, the proposal has gained traction within the National Assembly, where legislators representing the Ijebu region have been at the forefront of the campaign. Notably, these proponents have emphasized the need for administrative convenience, equitable resource distribution, and the preservation of Ijebu cultural identity.
Meanwhile the process of state creation in Nigeria involves several constitutional steps, including approval by the National Assembly and a referendum. In the initial stages, the proposal for Ijebu State requires a two-thirds majority vote in each chamber of the National Assembly. Subsequently, it must receive approval from at least 24 of the 36 state Houses of Assembly. While the exact voting figures from the first hearing are not publicly available, the proposal has reportedly garnered significant support, reflecting the persistent efforts of its advocates.
The Ijebu people, a subgroup of the Yoruba ethnic group, have a rich history that dates back to the 15th century. They established the Ijebu Kingdom, with Ijebu-Ode as its capital, and were known for their advanced political structures and economic prowess.
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The Ijebu were among the first Yoruba groups to engage in trade with Europeans, notably the Portuguese in the 14th century. Their strategic position along trade routes facilitated their dominance in regional commerce, particularly in the trade of goods such as spices, kola nuts, and palm oil.
The Ijebu are also recognized for their entrepreneurial spirit and have made significant contributions to Nigeria’s economy. They were pioneers in manufacturing and were the first Yoruba group to invent money made from cowrie shells, which facilitated trade and economic transactions.
The proposed Ijebu State encompasses areas with substantial economic activities, including agriculture, commerce, and industry. The region’s rich cultural heritage and historical landmarks, such as Sungbo’s Eredo—a vast system of defensive walls and ditches—also present opportunities for tourism development. The Ijebu people’s renowned business acumen further suggests that the state could harness local resources effectively to promote sustainable development.
However, the creation of a new state entails challenges, including the establishment of administrative structures, infrastructure development, and ensuring financial sustainability. It requires careful planning and consensus-building among stakeholders to address potential issues related to resource allocation and governance.
Ogun State as it is presently, has three senatorial districts namely Ogun West, predominantly Yewa People, Ogun Central predominantly Egba, and Owu and Ogun East, predominantly Ijebu and Remo people. It is not clear the level of support that the carving out of Ijebu state is getting from the two others senatorial districts, however it is obvious that they are not opposing the effort.
The major challenge envisaged is economic viability. Apart from being exceptional traders and industriallists there are natural resources that if well tapped, will make the proposed state viable. Fishing, agriculture, and logging are presently the mainstay of their economy.
Also, Bitumen, a naturally occurring form of petroleum, was first discovered in Nigeria in 1900 by German explorers in the Agbabu area of Ondo State. In Ogun State, particularly in the Imeri area, studies have indicated the presence of substantial bituminous sand deposits, with reserve estimates exceeding one million barrels.
Additionally, there are indications of bitumen deposits in Ogun Waterside, with potential for exploration and development. The presence of bitumen in Ijebu Waterside could significantly enhance the economic viability of the proposed Ijebu State. The exploitation of these resources could attract investments in infrastructure, create employment opportunities, and generate revenue through the development of related industries.
However, it is crucial to consider the environmental implications of bitumen extraction, as studies have highlighted potential hazards associated with such activities. Implementing sustainable extraction practices and adhering to environmental regulations would be essential to mitigate these risks.
There is also a claim that the deepest seabed in West Africa is located in Ijebu Waterside. This claim underscore why the promoters of liquefied natural gas project chose Ijebu Waterside in the stead of Delta State with more gas. Although this has become a moot point, yet Ogun Waterside is notable for its coastline along the Bight of Benin and its proximity to the Lagos Lagoon, but specific information about the depth of the seabed in this area is not well-documented.
The proposal to create Ijebu State reflects a longstanding desire among the Ijebu people for administrative recognition and autonomy. Their rich history, cultural significance, and economic contributions underscore the potential viability of the proposed state.
As the legislative process unfolds, it will be essential to consider the aspirations of the Ijebu people alongside the practicalities of state creation to ensure that such a move fosters development and unity within Nigeria.
