Daud Olatunji
Strong Indications have emerged that efforts to actualize the long-anticipated creation of Ijebu State have gained momentum, as the Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, held a closed-door meeting with President Bola Tinubu at his Lagos residence on Sunday.
Sources revealed that the monarch, known for rarely leaving his palace due to age and health-related reasons, made the significant visit to personally discuss the proposed state creation with the president.
Oba Adetona, who is widely regarded as a steadfast advocate for the creation of Ijebu State, was warmly received by Tinubu upon arrival, as evidenced by photos released by the State House.
The photos, which showed the monarch and the president in a cordial atmosphere, were captioned:
“President Bola Tinubu received the Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona Ogbagba Agbotewole II, at his residence in Lagos today, January 5, 2025. Photo: State House.”
Although the details of the discussion remain undisclosed, credible sources informed PLATFORM TIMES that the meeting centered on the longstanding demand for the creation of Ijebu State.
The move, which also involves the Remo region splitting from Ogun State, has faced repeated setbacks over the years.
According to insiders, the Awujale is determined to push the process forward despite the numerous challenges.
These include disagreements over the proposed name of the new state and the choice of its capital. While Ijebu-Ode has been suggested as the state capital, the proposal has drawn protests from the Remo community, who argue against both the name “Ijebu State” and the location of the capital.
The push for Ijebu State is not new, having been a subject of political and regional discourse for decades.
However, sources close to the discussions disclosed that this latest move represents one of the most coordinated efforts yet, with the Awujale leveraging his influence to seek Tinubu’s support.
Observers believe Tinubu’s stance will be crucial in determining the outcome, particularly given his history of close ties with the Awujale.
In May 2024, during Oba Adetona’s 90th birthday celebration, Tinubu conferred on him the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON), Nigeria’s second-highest national honor, in recognition of his contributions to national development.
Political analysts suggest that Tinubu’s support could add weight to the Ijebu State campaign, but it remains uncertain whether the president has committed to backing the proposal.
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