Legislative Progress on Ibadan State
The bill proposing the establishment of Ibadan State, with Ibadan city as its capital, successfully passed its second reading in the House of Representatives on October 22, 2024. Sponsored by Akeem Adeyemi, son of the late Alaafin of Oyo, and six other lawmakers, the bill also suggests the formation of a new Oyo State, designating Oyo town as its capital. The proposed division aims to address administrative and developmental challenges by creating more localized governance structures.
Nationwide Proposals for State Creation
The Ibadan State proposal is among 31 state creation requests received by the House of Representatives Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution. These proposals span all six geopolitical zones, including suggestions for states like Lagoon (Lagos), Aba (Abia), and Ijebu (Ogun) [2] . Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, during a plenary session on February 6, 2025, emphasized that all proposals must adhere strictly to constitutional guidelines outlined in Section 8 of the 1999 Constitution.
Constitutional Requirements and Challenges
Creating a new state in Nigeria involves a rigorous constitutional process:
1. Submission of a formal request supported by at least two-thirds of elected representatives (Senate, House of Representatives, and State Houses of Assembly) from the affected areas.
2. Approval by a two-thirds majority in both chambers of the National Assembly.
3. Conducting a referendum in the proposed area, requiring a two-thirds majority vote in favor.
4. Final endorsement by the President.
Many of the current proposals, including that for Ibadan State, have yet to fulfill these stringent requirements. A principal officer of the House noted that several submissions lacked necessary endorsements and detailed frameworks, rendering them procedurally inadequate.
Public Sentiment and Advocacy
Advocates for Ibadan State argue that the creation of a separate state would facilitate more focused governance and equitable resource distribution, addressing the unique needs of the Ibadan populace. However, critics caution against the proliferation of states, citing concerns over economic viability and administrative overhead. Notably, the Yoruba socio-political group Afenifere has expressed skepticism, suggesting that the focus should instead be on restructuring existing governance frameworks to enhance efficiency.
The journey toward the creation of Ibadan State reflects the complexities inherent in Nigeria's federal structure and the diverse aspirations of its constituents. While the proposal has made legislative strides, its realization hinges on meeting constitutional mandates and garnering broad-based support. As the National Assembly continues to deliberate on these matters, the discourse surrounding state creation remains a pivotal aspect of Nigeria's evolving democratic process.
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