The Remo Committee on State Creation has restated its firm position to maintain a distinct identity in any new state proposed from Ogun State. Backed by the Akarigbo of Remoland, Oba Babatunde Ajayi, the committee submitted a separate memorandum to the National Assembly, advocating for a state that reflects Remo’s unique heritage.
In a statement made available on Monday, signed by the committee chairman, Aare Kola Oyefeso, and secretary, Mr. Wole Awe, the group noted that past efforts to create a new state failed due to disagreements between the Ijebu and Remo divisions over the proposed state’s name and capital.
The committee rejected the Ijebu proposal to name the state “Ijebu State” with Ijebu-Ode as the capital, arguing that it fails to acknowledge Remo’s identity. Instead, Remo leaders are proposing the name “Remo-Ijebu State” with Sagamu as the capital, citing historical and infrastructural justifications.
“Just as other states in Nigeria were named to reflect their diverse ethnic compositions—like Oyo with Ibadan as capital, and Osun with Osogbo—no single group should dominate the naming or capital decision,” the statement said.
The committee emphasized that Remo’s distinctiveness has been long recognized, including in the 1937 Martindale Enquiry, and that this identity cannot be compromised. It added that Remo people, with roots in the Iremo quarters of Ile-Ife, have always maintained a separate cultural and historical lineage.
Highlighting Remo’s growth, the committee argued that Sagamu is the most suitable location for a state capital in Ogun East, noting its rapid development, industrialization, proximity to Lagos, and existing airport infrastructure.
“Remo’s contribution to Ogun State’s internally generated revenue, as well as its strategic transport links, makes it highly capable of sustaining a future state with minimal reliance on federal allocations,” the statement added.
Despite differences over the state creation proposal, the committee expressed respect and goodwill towards the Ijebu people and their traditional ruler, Oba Sikiru Adetona, affirming a continued cordial relationship.
“We wish the Ijebus well in their pursuit of a separate state. However, Remo will not accept any arrangement that erases or subsumes its name or identity,” the committee concluded.
