Remo’s Quest For Statehood: Committee Presents Memorandum Reports To Akarigbo, With Sagamu At The Helm

Genesis Media Hub February 26, 2025

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The Remo Committee on State Creation, established by the Akarigbo and Paramount Ruler of Remo Land, His Royal Majesty Oba (Dr.) Babatunde Adewale Ajayi, CON, has officially submitted its report proposing the establishment of a new state named Remo-Ijebu State, with Sagamu designated as the capital.

The formal presentation ceremony took place at the Royal Banquet Hall of the Akarigbo’s official residence, Ita-Oba, Sagamu, Ogun State, at 11:00 a.m on Wednesday, February 26, 2025.

Speaking at the event, Aare (Dr.) Kola Oyefeso, Chairman of the Remo Committee on State Creation, expressed gratitude to Oba Babatunde Adewale Ajayi for entrusting the committee with this critical responsibility. The Committee’s chaired by Aare Oyefeso, presented the 66-pages memorandum in the presence of committee members, royal fathers from Remo, youth representatives, and media personnel.

In response, the Akarigbo reaffirmed that this document accurately reflects the views of the Remo people and urged the community to disregard any previous statements or documents related to state creation, as this is the most current and authentic proposal.

Rationale For State Creation:

Aare Oyefeso explained that the memorandum provides compelling reasons for the formation of a new state from the former Ijebu Province within Ogun State. He highlighted the distinct identity of the Remo people, separate from the Ijebus, and underscored the importance of protecting their cultural heritage.

Support For Sagamu As The Capital:

The committee’s report cited strong justification for selecting Sagamu as the state capital. According to the memorandum, “Empirical data supports the establishment of the capital in Sagamu, given its exponential growth and development over the last three decades.” Sagamu has emerged as the commercial hub of Remo Land, making it a logical choice for the proposed capital.

Preserving The Remo Identity:

Central to the memorandum is the protection of the unique Remo identity. The committee firmly stated that any efforts to dilute this identity in the proposed state will not be tolerated. The Remo people trace their origins back to Iremo Quarters in Ile-Ife, Osun State, maintaining a connection to their roots.

Demand For Additional Local Governments:

The committee also called for the creation of more local government areas (LGAs) within the new state, citing an increasing population inflow from Lagos and surrounding areas. They argued that the current local government structure is inadequate for managing growth and that additional LGAs would enhance governance and promote balanced development.

Advocacy For Statehood:

The memorandum emphasizes the urgency of statehood for the Ogun East Senatorial District, historically known as Ijebu Province. This region is notable for having been created prior to Nigeria’s independence in 1960 yet still lacking the status of a state.

Endorsements And Next Steps:

The report enjoys the full backing of Oba Ajayi, who affirmed that it reflects the collective stance of the Remo people. He emphasized the need for broad political support from Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun and other stakeholders.Aare Oyefeso expressed gratitude to the Akarigbo for assembling the committee and consulting with the community on their statehood aspirations.

The next phase will involve presenting the memorandum to the National Assembly for legislative discussion and consideration.

Prominent royal fathers including the Kabiesi Elepe of Epe, Kabiesi Alaye Ode of Ode Remo, Kabiesi Onipara of Ipara Remo, Remo Youth Association (RYA) Comrade Bidemi Solarin representing the entire youth constituency, other committee members, and notable personalities, were in attendance, with broad support evident throughout the gathering. The committee was formed following a stakeholders’ meeting held in January to discuss the creation of the new state.