A unified call for the creation of Remo State is gaining traction among traditional rulers, community leaders, political figures, and civil society advocates from the Remo region. This marks a historic moment as the Remo people independently seek statehood, distinct from previous regional configurations, driven by a collective desire for equity, recognition, and inclusive development.
In a formal memorandum, stakeholders have requested the establishment of Remo State, carved out from Ogun State, with its capital proposed to be Sagamu. This demand is founded on the unique ethnic identity of the Remo people, characterized by a republican nature rather than monarchical traditions.
The push for Remo State stems from a history of division. In 2009, while collaborating on a joint memorandum for a proposed Ijebu-Remo State, the Ijebu delegation opted for a separate bid for Ijebu State, with Ijebu-Ode as its capital. The Remo delegation, however, advocated for a Remo-Ijebu State with Ikenne as the capital. This lack of unity weakened their case and led to a missed opportunity. While expressing goodwill toward Ijebu’s aspirations, the Remo committee insists on maintaining its distinct identity and autonomy.
The envisioned Remo State would encompass the core Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Sagamu, Ikenne, and Remo North, as well as culturally aligned communities. It aims to capitalize on its established industrial landscape, educational institutions, and traditional leadership to foster a prosperous and inclusive state.Stakeholders assert that while they advocate for state creation as a means to promote justice and development, they will not support any plan that dilutes Remo’s identity in a possible Ijebu State. If a peaceful compromise is unattainable, they affirm their preference to remain within Ogun State rather than be merged into a formation that fails to respect their distinctiveness.
At a press conference held at the palace of the Akarigbo of Remo Land, the Senator, representing Ogun East Senatorial District, Otunba Gbenga Daniel (OGD), praised the commitment of royal fathers and committee members for articulating the views of the Remo people. He underscored their constitutional right to self-determination and called for peaceful dialogue between Remo and Ijebu constituencies, emphasizing the strength found in their unity.
In a bid to resolve the ongoing debate over Remo State, OGD called for peaceful dialogue and unity between Remo and Ijebu people, urged both sides to prioritize togetherness, noting that Ogun State’s strength lies in their unity. He assured the community of his commitment to brokering a peaceful resolution, emphasizing that no one should subjugate Remo.
While acknowledging the passion behind the call for Remo State, a respected elder statesman and community leader, Chief S.K. Onafowokan, the Asiwaju of Remo Land, advocated for a balanced compromise, suggesting that Ijebu State could be established with Sagamu as its capital. He stressed that one side cannot dictate terms, and proposed that the Akarigbo of Remo Land and the Awujale of Ijebu Land engage in closed-door negotiations to reach a mutually agreeable solution.
Dr. Yemi Ogunbiyi echoed these sentiments, appealing to Senator Daniel to uphold his commitment to fostering unity and represent the interests of both sides fairly.
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Supporters of the Remo State initiative assert that their movement is a grassroots-driven endeavor. They highlight the region’s potential for economic success, with major companies like Nestlé Nigeria and Lafarge Cement, combined with its strategic proximity to Lagos and critical infrastructure and the presence of the Ogun State Agro-Cargo Airport, the region already possesses a solid industrial and commercial foundation for sustainable growth.
Prominent attendees at the conference includes Elepe of Epe, Oba Adewale Osiberu, Negbuwa of Ibido, Oba Kolawole Adesina Adeyemi, Radanuwa of Idado, Oba Musiliu O. Soile (Osiderumu), Alakenne of Ikenne, Oba Adeyinka Onakade, Alaye of Ode-Remo, Oba (Dr.) SUV. Adetunji A. Osho, Onipara of Ipara, Oba Taiwo Taiwo (Amororo II), Ebi of Idena, Oba Lukman Salami (Sebu II), the Olumogun Adimula, Aare Dr. Kola Oyefeso- Aare Gbo-Gbo-Gbo (GGG) of Remo-Land, and Chairman Remo committee on State creation, and among many others, voicing their commitment to a peaceful and lawful pursuit of Remo Statehood.
The committee reiterated its dedication to this cause, stating, “If Remo State cannot be realized now, then we choose to remain in Ogun State, not as a subordinate, but as proud and autonomous people with our own vision.”
The movement calls upon Remo’s sons and daughters, both at home and in the diaspora, to contribute their voices and resources to this generational quest, declaring that “Remo State will, through collective will and justice, claim its rightful position among Nigeria’s federating units.”
