House of Representatives member representing Ibadan North-East/Ibadan South-East Federal Constituency, Abass Adigun, has stated reasons why Ibadan deserves to be created as a state.
Adigun, who sponsored the bill for the creation of Ibadan State, said the proposed state would be carved out from the current Oyo State and parts of Ondo State.
The lawmaker made the statement on Thursday, during the debate on the bill, which passed its second reading in the House of Representatives.
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According to him, Ibadan’s landmass and population justify its eligibility to become a state.
He said, “Ibadan as it is today, the size is about 25,000 square meters while the whole South-East region with five states is about 33,000 square meters.
“In terms of population, we have what it takes to be a state.”
The lawmaker further emphasised Ibadan’s economic and administrative capacity to stand alone, saying, “One local government in Ibadan city is bigger than three local governments in Bayelsa State.”
Adigun also highlighted the need for fairness and recognition of Ibadan’s contribution to national development, adding, “Ibadan has played a key role in Nigeria’s political and economic history.
“We deserve recognition as a state that can drive progress and development for our people.”
He continued, “This is not about politics or sentiment; it is about justice and equity. Ibadan has the infrastructure, population, and human resources to function effectively as a state.”
His remark, however, sparked a rowdy session in the chamber as several lawmakers raised a point of order, insisting that he withdraw the statement.
Despite the reactions, Adigun stood his ground, saying, “I am only speaking the truth based on facts and figures.
“The time has come for Ibadan to take its rightful place among Nigerian states.”
