Okeogun Reiterates Demand for State Creation at Public Hearing, Rejects Merger Proposals
21/07/2025
At a recent public hearing, the Okeogun Development Consultative Forum (ODCF), through its General Secretary, Dr. Bimpe Adéróunmú, reasserted the long-standing demand for the creation of Okeogun State, insisting that the region has all it takes to stand alone as a viable and self-sustaining state within Nigeria.
This renewed call adds to the history of Okeogun’s agitation, widely regarded as one of the oldest and most consistent demands for state creation in the country. While neighboring regions such as Ogbomoso and Oyo have sought alignment with Okeogun in their own statehood proposals — each eyeing the capital status — the people of Okeogun have firmly rejected such partnerships.
Governance Must Come Closer to the People
In his presentation, Dr. Adéróunmú emphasized that the core of governance is to bring development closer to the grassroots. He stated that the creation of Okeogun State would end decades of marginalization and underdevelopment faced by the region, enabling the government to reach the people more effectively.
Okeogun: A Region Ripe with Potential
The speaker highlighted Okeogun's capacity to thrive independently. Occupying two-thirds (about 60%) of Oyo State’s arable land, Okeogun serves as the food basket of Oyo State and a major contributor to food production across the Southwest region.
In addition to agricultural strength, Okeogun is rich in solid minerals, including: Marble in Igbeti, Lithium in Kishi, Gold in Saki, Kaolin in Ado Awaye
The region also boasts a strong pool of human capital, with sons and daughters who have served the nation in notable capacities.
No to Merger Proposals
Dr. Adéróunmú made it clear that the people of Okeogun reject any merger plans with other zones or cities in any future state creation effort. He stressed that the request is solely for Okeogun State, independent of any Ibadan, Oyo, or Ogbomoso collaboration.
“We are not in any agreement or negotiation with any quarter or zone to merge in any state creation effort. If an Ibadan State is to be created, then an Okeogun State should also be created.”
A Historic Struggle, A Justified Demand
The call for Okeogun State has persisted through several administrations and constitutional review exercises. This latest submission reaffirms the region’s stance and reignites the conversation around fair representation, resource control, and regional development.
As more voices rise in support, the Okeogun people remain united in their demand for recognition, autonomy, and justice.
