A bill seeking the creation of Ibadan State from the present Oyo State has passed its second reading in the House of Representatives, marking a major step forward in one of Nigeria’s longest-standing statehood agitations.
The proposed legislation, sponsored by Hon. Abass Adigun, who represents Ibadan Northeast/Ibadan Southeast Federal Constituency, was debated and approved for further consideration during Thursday’s plenary session.
If successful, the bill will alter the 1999 Constitution to carve out a new state from Oyo, a move supporters say will correct historical imbalances, promote equitable development, and strengthen Nigeria’s federal structure.
“Ibadan Has Waited Too Long” – Adigun
Leading the debate, Hon. Adigun noted that while other former regional capitals such as Enugu and Kaduna have since become states, Ibadan, once the political and administrative capital of the old Western Region remains part of Oyo State.
“This bill represents a monumental step toward equitable development through federalism and the realization of the long-held aspiration of the people of Ibadan,” he said.
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Adigun emphasized that Ibadan’s population, landmass, and economic strength make it more than qualified for statehood, claiming that “one local government in Ibadan is larger than three local governments in Bayelsa State combined.”
His remark, however, drew objections from Hon. Obuku Ofurji (Yenagoa/Opokuma Federal Constituency, Bayelsa), who described the comparison as “irrelevant and disrespectful.” Adigun later apologized but stood by his statement, insisting it was factual.
A Long History of Advocacy
The demand for Ibadan State dates back to the 1980s, reflecting a deep-rooted desire for recognition and self-determination. Supporters argue that the city’s size, history, and economic contributions justify its statehood.
Chief Bayo Oyero, a prominent community leader and member of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), documented that Ibadan contributes massively to Oyo State’s internally generated revenue but has not received commensurate development.
“Ibadan has the resources, population, and administrative capacity to thrive as a state. What we seek is justice and fair representation,” Oyero said.
Economists and policy analysts agree that Ibadan’s population of over five million and its diversified economy — spanning agriculture, manufacturing, trade, and education, make it one of the most viable cities in Nigeria for statehood.
Dr. Sola Adedeji, an economist at the University of Ibadan, noted that “the city’s economic base is strong and its infrastructure can sustain an independent administrative structure. What Ibadan needs now is autonomy to manage its development priorities.”
Politically, the South-West geopolitical zone currently has six states, compared to seven in the North-West. The creation of Ibadan State, advocates argue, would correct this imbalance and enhance the region’s representation in the National Assembly.
Despite growing support, constitutional hurdles remain steep. Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, who presided over the session, referred the bill to the House Committee on Constitutional Review, noting that state creation is among the most complex constitutional amendments in Nigeria.
Section 8(1) of the 1999 Constitution requires a two-thirds majority approval in both chambers of the National Assembly, as well as endorsements from affected state assemblies, local governments, and a successful referendum within the proposed area.
Political observers say the process will test both the unity and political will of lawmakers.
Since Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999, no new state has been created, despite several similar proposals reaching various stages of consideration.
While optimism runs high among supporters, some experts urge caution. Professor Adebajo, a political scientist at University of Ibadan, said that “Ibadan deserves development and representation, but Nigeria must weigh the economic cost of state creation against its benefits.”
Still, the momentum behind the Ibadan State bill continues to grow, symbolizing not just a regional dream, but a renewed push for equity and fair governance within Nigeria’s federal system.
“Ibadan deserves a state not out of sentiment,” Chief Oyero said, “but out of merit, population, and contribution to national growth. It’s time Nigeria recognized that.”
