The Remo Committee on State Creation has reaffirmed its commitment to preserving the distinctive identity of Remo people in the ongoing agitation for the creation of new states in Nigeria.

At a press briefing held on Tuesday, the committee disclosed that it submitted a separate memorandum to the National Assembly—backed by the Akarigbo of Remoland, Oba Babatunde Ajayi—to advocate for the creation of a Remo-Ijebu State, with Sagamu as its proposed capital.

In a statement jointly signed by the committee’s chairman, Aare Kola Oyefeso, and secretary, Mr. Wole Awe, the group explained that their position became necessary following persistent disagreements between the Remo and Ijebu divisions on the proposed name and capital of the new state.

The committee opposed the Ijebu division’s proposal for a state to be named “Ijebu State” with its capital in Ijebu-Ode, arguing that such an arrangement marginalizes the Remo identity.

“It is unacceptable to Remo people that the proposed state should be named Ijebu State or have its capital in Ijebu-Ode, as this does not reflect our identity or contributions,” the committee stated.

Citing historical precedents, the committee noted that state creations in Nigeria have always recognized the ethnic diversity of their regions. It pointed to examples such as Oyo State with Ibadan as capital and Osun State with Osogbo as efforts to accommodate the identities of all constituent groups.

The committee also highlighted the precedent set during the creation of Ogun State, where the name “Abeokuta” or “Egba” was not adopted to avoid any single group dominating others. “In the same spirit, we insist that Remo cannot be subsumed under any guise,” the statement read.

The Remo proposal—distinct from that of the Ijebu—is for a Remo-Ijebu State with Sagamu as capital, based on the area’s rapid growth, strategic location, and existing infrastructure. The committee emphasized that Sagamu, due to its proximity to Lagos and robust transport network, is best positioned to serve as a state capital.

“Remo boasts an existing airport suitable for cargo, local, and international flights. This, alongside strong industrial development and substantial revenue contribution, positions Remo as economically viable for statehood,” the statement added.

The committee stressed that its stand does not stem from hostility towards the Ijebu people. “We hold the Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, in the highest regard and maintain cordial relations with our Ijebu brothers and sisters,” it said.