A bill seeking the creation of a new state from the existing Oyo State passed its second reading in the House of Representatives on Tuesday. The proposed “New Oyo State,” with Oyo town as its capital, aims to divide the current Oyo State, citing its large size and population as reasons for the split.
Hon. Akeem Adeyemi, who sponsored the bill, argued that New Oyo State would be economically and politically viable, boasting significant agricultural potential, water resources, and mineral deposits such as gold and limestone. Oyo town, known for its rich cultural heritage as the historical seat of the old Oyo Kingdom, already has key government facilities that could serve as the foundation for the new state’s administration.
The bill also calls for renaming the remaining part of Oyo State to Ibadan State, with Ibadan as its capital. The creation of New Oyo State has long been supported, including in the 2014 National Conference report and the National Assembly’s approval in 1983 before a military coup halted its progress.
The next step for the bill includes a public hearing before it advances to a third reading, potentially bringing the long-standing dream of New Oyo State closer to reality.
Be First to Comment