House of Reps bill seeking creation of Ibadan State scales second reading
A bill proposing the creation of Ibadan State from the present Oyo State has passed second reading in the House of Representatives.
The proposed legislation, sponsored by Abass Adigun (Agboworin), representing Ibadan North East/Ibadan South East Federal Constituency, advanced during Thursday’s plenary session.
Leading debate on the bill, Adigun said Ibadan deserves statehood considering its historical importance, population size, and vast landmass. He described the proposal as “a monumental step toward equitable development through federalism and the realisation of the long-held aspiration of the people of Ibadan.”
He noted that while former regional capitals such as Enugu and Kaduna have become states, Ibadan — the former capital of the old Western Region — remains part of Oyo State. Adigun argued that the city has the capacity to function independently, adding that one local government area in Ibadan is larger than three in Bayelsa State.
His comment, however, drew objections from Obuku Ofurji, who represents Yenagoa/Opokuma Federal Constituency in Bayelsa, describing the comparison as “irrelevant and disrespectful.” Adigun later apologised but stood by his claim.
Presiding over the session, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu referred the bill to the House Committee on Constitutional Review for further legislative consideration.
The proposal comes amid the ongoing constitution amendment process, which lawmakers aim to conclude by December 2025.
The renewed agitation aligns with a recent call by the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, who urged President Bola Tinubu to approve the creation of Ibadan State before 2027 during his coronation as the 44th Olubadan on September 29, 2025.
