Support the Creation of Ijebu State in Nigeria!


Support the Creation of Ijebu State in Nigeria!
The Issue
For decades, the people of Ijebu and Remo have passionately advocated for the creation of Ijebu State. This demand is rooted in historical, economic, and administrative realities. We believe the importance of Ijebu State are,
1. Historical and Political Influence
Ijebu was an independent and highly organized kingdom before British colonization, with a structured governance system led by the Awujale and councils like the Osugbo (judicial council).
It played a key role in Yoruba political history, resisting external domination and maintaining its sovereignty until the Anglo-Ijebu War of 1892.
2. Economic Powerhouse and Trade Hub
Ijebu controlled major trade routes between the coastal ports and the inland Yoruba cities, facilitating commerce in goods like kolanuts, textiles, and metals.
It was home to a strong merchant class (Parakoyi), and its economy thrived on local and international trade.
3. Cultural and Educational Advancement
Ijebu produced some of Nigerias earliest Western-educated elites and was a center of early missionary activities.
The people of Ijebu are known for their cultural identity, including festivals (Ojude Oba), traditional institutions, and distinct customs.
4. Administrative Importance in Colonial Nigeria
Ijebu Province was a recognized administrative unit under British rule, separate from other Yoruba regions and its capital, Ijebu Ode, served as a key colonial administrative center, with well-established institutions of governance.
5. Advocacy for Statehood and Equity
Despite being a major former province, Ijebu has not been granted statehood, unlike other regions such as Ondo, Ekiti, and Osun.

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The Issue
For decades, the people of Ijebu and Remo have passionately advocated for the creation of Ijebu State. This demand is rooted in historical, economic, and administrative realities. We believe the importance of Ijebu State are,
1. Historical and Political Influence
Ijebu was an independent and highly organized kingdom before British colonization, with a structured governance system led by the Awujale and councils like the Osugbo (judicial council).
It played a key role in Yoruba political history, resisting external domination and maintaining its sovereignty until the Anglo-Ijebu War of 1892.
2. Economic Powerhouse and Trade Hub
Ijebu controlled major trade routes between the coastal ports and the inland Yoruba cities, facilitating commerce in goods like kolanuts, textiles, and metals.
It was home to a strong merchant class (Parakoyi), and its economy thrived on local and international trade.
3. Cultural and Educational Advancement
Ijebu produced some of Nigerias earliest Western-educated elites and was a center of early missionary activities.
The people of Ijebu are known for their cultural identity, including festivals (Ojude Oba), traditional institutions, and distinct customs.
4. Administrative Importance in Colonial Nigeria
Ijebu Province was a recognized administrative unit under British rule, separate from other Yoruba regions and its capital, Ijebu Ode, served as a key colonial administrative center, with well-established institutions of governance.
5. Advocacy for Statehood and Equity
Despite being a major former province, Ijebu has not been granted statehood, unlike other regions such as Ondo, Ekiti, and Osun.

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Petition created on 5 February 2025