Former Governor and Senator representing Ogun East, Gbenga Daniel, has told his constituents that his return to the Senate in 2027 will play a critical role in the struggle the Ijebu State creation.
Daily Trust reports that Daniel had sponsored a bill seeking to establish Ijebu as an independent state out of Ogun State.
The bill, titled the “Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (Sixth Alteration) Bill, 2024 (Creation of Ijebu State),” and introduced by Senate majority leader Michael Bamidele, scaled the first reading in November last year.
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However, there has been some controversy about the naming of the proposed state and the situation of its capital.
Despite some controversy surrounding the name and proposed capital of the new state, Daniel reaffirmed his commitment to the cause.
He spoke on Sunday at the commissioning of Renewed Hope International Market and unveiling of BATOGD Movement Support Group in Igode, Sagamu.
The commissioning which included multimillion empowerment program for members of the Senatorial District was part of the lawmaker’s midterm community assessment and review tour.
Highlighting Ogun East’s contribution to the current state structure, Daniel pointed out that the district comprises 9 out of the 20 local government areas in Ogun State.
According to him, the creation of Ijebu State would catalyze development and better governance in the region.
He cautioned constituents about the procedural complexities in the National Assembly, explaining that if a lawmaker begins a bill but does not complete the process before leaving office, a new representative would have to restart the entire legislative process.
“We have been engaging with our leader, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to determine whether Ijebu State will be approved before or after the next election. Our hope is that it happens before 2027.
“I want to warn you so that you won’t say OGD didn’t tell you. If for political expediency our leader says we must wait until after the election, and your Senator does not return, then we will have to start all over again.
“Let me explain to you. National Assembly’s rules can be a bit funny. If a lawmaker begins the process of a bill but he fails to complete the process, if another person comes on board, the process has to start afresh.”
Daniel also emphasized his commitment to President Tinubu’s administration, explaining that the BATOGD Movement was born out of his unwavering support for Tinubu’s leadership and re-election bid.
“President Tinubu has provided our country with conscious leadership through a systematic process of rethinking the nation, redirecting the economy, and reengineering national protocols. His administration has shown uncommon courage in confronting long-standing issues, and that boldness is commendable,” he said.
In his remarks, the Onigode of Igode Kingdom, Oba Jamiu Sule – Onosipe, applauded Tinubu and Daniel over the market project, noting that it would boost trade and the economy of the area.
