•As Hon. Olamiju Alao Akala Proposes Ogbomoso as State Capital of New Oyo State
From Taiwo Oluwadare, Ibadan
A bill proposing the creation of a new Oyo State, with Ogbomoso as its capital, has successfully passed the second reading in the House of Representatives. The bill was first introduced to the floor of the House on February 27, 2024.
Spearheaded by Hon. Olamijuwonlo Ayodeji Alao Akala, who represents the Ogbomoso North, South, and Oriire Federal Constituency, the legislation seeks to amend the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (Amendment Bill), 2024. The bill aims to modify Part 1 of the First Schedule to establish two new states: Ibadan and Oyo, with their respective capitals being Ibadan city and Ogbomoso.
According to Hon. Akala, Ibadan State will comprise 11 local governments in Ibadan and three in Ibarapa, including Akinyele, Egbeda, Ibadan North, Ibadan South-West, Ibadan South-East, Ibadan North-East, Ibadan North-West, Lagelu, Oluyole, Ona Ara, Ido, Ibarapa East, Ibarapa Central, and Ibarapa North.
The proposed New Oyo State will include Ogbomoso as the state capital, along with local governments including Afijio, Atiba, Atisbo, Ogo Oluwa, Irepo, Iseyin, Itesiwaju, Iwajowa, Kajola, Ori Ire, Olorunsogo, Oorelope, Oyo East, Oyo West, Saki East, Saki West, Surulere, Ogbomoso North, and Ogbomoso South.
In leading the debate, Hon. Alao Akala stated, “Creating Ibadan as a state would honor its legacy and provide a platform to preserve and promote the unique Yoruba culture and traditions that Ibadan embodies. The establishment of Ibadan as a state and its own capital would not only benefit its citizens but also contribute positively to Nigeria’s national development. As a state, Ibadan would have the autonomy to develop its cultural and historical assets, which are crucial to Nigeria’s national identity.”
He pointed out that while Ibadan currently serves as the commercial hub of Oyo State, shifting some focus to Ogbomoso could spur infrastructure development and economic growth in underdeveloped areas. “The case for Ogbomoso as the capital rests on its status as the second-largest city in Oyo State after Ibadan, its significant historical role in Yoruba history, and its central location within the state.”
Hon. Alao Akala emphasized that Ogbomoso is undergoing rapid population growth and urbanization, making it well-suited to serve as the capital. By positioning Ogbomoso as the capital of Oyo State, there is an opportunity for more balanced development throughout the region.
He further noted, “Ogbomoso symbolizes regional unity and progress. Geographically, it is strategically located with excellent road and rail links to other major cities, acting as a bridge between Nigeria’s northern and southwestern regions. It boasts a rich history of commerce, educational institutions, and a burgeoning local economy demonstrating significant growth potential. Ogbomoso is ideal as an administrative and political capital, thanks not only to its location but also its rising infrastructure and industrialization.”