By
Taoreed Abdullahi
Recently, the Joint National Assembly committee on constitutional amendment, comprising Distinguished Senators of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Honourable members of the House of Representatives, held public hearings on the review of the 1999 Constitution.
While the move is a constitutional requirement for the alteration of the constitution, I commend the National Assembly for bringing these hearings directly to the people, allowing them to voice their opinions on how to elevate our country. The hearing held in Lagos for the South West zone provided a platform for stakeholders to discuss strategies for advancing Nigeria.
During the hearings, several key issues were raised, including the need to create additional states to foster development across the country. I hope the committee will take into account the views of the people of Oke-Ogun, as many residents may not have the opportunity to express their opinions.
I humbly urge the esteemed committee members engaged in the constitutional amendments, from both the Senate and House of Representatives, as well as distinguished Nigerians, to consider the creation of Oke-Ogun State from the current Oyo State. Oke-Ogun deserves to be established as a separate state in this ongoing constitutional review. The good people of the zone earnestly request that the committee heed our demand for this new state.
Specifically, it is the hope of the good people of Oke-Ogun that the memorandum and submission of Oke-Ogun people led by Dr Aderonmu, wherein the delegation made a case for an autonomous Oke-Ogun state. Dr Aderonmu, in his presentation before the joint committee, stressed that the neglected people of Oke-Ogun are not in alliance or accord with any zone; as such, what the people are asking is pure Oke-Ogun State (Oke-Ogun ponbele).
Furthermore, we would appreciate it if the Local Council Development Areas established by the late former governor of Oyo State, Alhaji Lam Adeshina, could be upgraded to full-fledged Local Government Areas. This transition would promote equity, justice, and fairness, especially since Oke-Ogun has long been marginalised within Oyo State. Notably, the region has not produced a governor since its inception.
The resources generated from Oke-Ogun by previous governments have not led to significant development in the area. This region possesses enough natural resources to be self-sustaining.
Oke-Ogun consists of ten densely populated Local Government Areas: Olorunsogo, Oorelope, Irepo, Saki East, Saki West, Atisbo, Itesiwaju, Iseyin, Kajola, and Iwajowa. Currently, Oke-Ogun has a population of around four million people, an increase from two million as reported in the 2006 National Census.
With the largest landmass in Oyo State, Oke-Ogun covers 13,537 square kilometres, accounting for approximately sixty per cent of the entire state. The people of Oke-Ogun are law-abiding and peace-loving, contributing to the well-being and food security of the nation. The region plays a crucial role in elections, as candidates who win over Oke-Ogun are likely to secure substantial votes in Oyo State.
Oke-Ogun is often referred to as the food basket of Oyo State and the Western States. Due to its fertile land, the area excels in agriculture and food processing. It attracts buyers from various parts of Nigeria and even Africa seeking food supplies, which can generate resources if the region is granted its own state, reducing dependence on federal allocations.
Culturally, Oke-Ogun is rich in heritage, reflected in the lifestyle of its people. The region is one of Nigeria’s most resource-rich areas, with much to contribute to the entire country.
Reports indicate that Oke-Ogun’s resources might surpass those of some African countries, including Botswana, known for its diamond wealth. Oke-Ogun is unparalleled in Nigeria concerning solid minerals, with marble, dolomite, and other resources found in Igbeti town in Olorunsogo Local Government and Oriire. The area also boasts tourmaline in Komu town, tantalite in Sepeteri town, and quartz in Itesiwaju, along with columbite, talc, and several other minerals available in commercial quantities throughout the region.
Additionally, Oke-Ogun is home to numerous tourist attractions, such as Iyake Lake- the only known natural suspended lake in the world, located in Ado Awaye, Iseyin local government. Igbo Oba in Kishi town, Ebedi Hill in Iseyin town, Asabari Hill in Shaki town, and Akomare Hill in Igangan town. Establishing Oke-Ogun State would enable the government to tap into these resources and govern effectively without relying solely on federal allocations.
In terms of education, Oke-Ogun has produced numerous professors, teachers, technocrats, and professionals who significantly contribute to human capital development. Today, the people of Oke-Ogun are grateful to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for establishing a University of Agriculture and Technology in Okeho, located in Kajola Local Government Area. This institution will complement existing tertiary institutions like Ladoke Akintola University in Iseyin and Oke-Ogun Polytechnic, enhancing access to quality education in the region.
TAOREED ABDULLAHI WRITES FROM LAGOS AND IS REACHABLE VIA
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