Historical records have unequivocally established Oke-Ogun as the birthplace of Yoruba civilisation. The region’s rich cultural heritage is evident in its nomenclature, pyres, totems, natural land formations, relics, war history, and socio-political incidents. This underscores its significance as the ancestral home of all Yoruba communities in Southwestern Nigeria.
From the ancient city of Iseyin to the historic town of Saki, and from Okeho through Iganna to Ijio, Oke-Ogun is replete with landmarks that attest to its enduring legacy as the birthplace of Yoruba culture. The overwhelming evidence of Oke-Ogun’s historical importance is empirical proof of its role as the springboard of Yoruba civility.
Almost all communities in the Southwest have direct affinity with Oke-Ogun, making it a sociocultural home for all Yoruba people. The region’s unique cultural landscape, characterised by a blend of traditional and modern practices, has made it a magnet for people from all over Yorubaland.
A cursory examination of Yoruba family lineages reveals that no family can be found without a direct connection to the Oke-Ogun region. This phenomenon is not limited to family ties, as business entrepreneurs and individuals from various walks of life have made Oke-Ogun their homestead.
The region’s strategic location, situated at the heart of Yorubaland, has made it an attractive destination for people seeking to establish roots in the area. The revelation of Oke-Ogun’s historical significance serves as a powerful unifying force for the Yoruba people, underscoring their shared heritage and unity.
This uncontested perspective of history provides a compelling justification for making Oke-Ogun the seat of power for the proposed new state to be carved out from the present Oyo State. By recognising Oke-Ogun’s status as the cradle of Yoruba civilisation, we can begin to build a sense of shared identity and purpose that transcends geographical boundaries.
In comparison to other regions of Yorubaland, Oke-Ogun boasts an impressive ten local governments, surpassing the number of local governments in some states in Nigeria. This demographic advantage, coupled with its sprawling landmass and population, makes Oke-Ogun the most viable option for the new state headquarters.
The region’s large population and extensive land area provide a solid foundation for economic growth and development. Furthermore, Oke-Ogun’s strategic location and existing infrastructure make it an ideal hub for economic growth and development.
The region’s vast agricultural potential, mineral resources, and tourism attractions provide a solid foundation for sustainable development. With these rich natural resources and strategic location, Oke-Ogun is poised to become a major economic powerhouse in the Southwest.
The creation of a new state with Oke-Ogun as its headquarters will not only be a nod to the region’s rich history but also a catalyst for socioeconomic transformation. It will provide opportunities for job creation, improved infrastructure, and enhanced service delivery.
By creating a new state with Oke-Ogun at its helm, we can unlock the region’s vast potential and create a brighter future for its people. The Nigerian government is hereby urged to consider the overwhelming evidence in support of Oke-Ogun as the ideal location for the new state headquarters.
The recently approved University of Agriculture, along with other existing academic institutions of higher learning, will guarantee easy access to education. We are confident that the decision to site a state headquarters in Oke-Ogun will be a step in the right direction, fostering growth, development, and unity among the Yoruba people.
By recognising Oke-Ogun’s status as the cradle of Yoruba civilisation, we can begin to build a sense of shared identity and purpose that transcends geographical boundaries. Oke-Ogun awaits the government’s decision, committed to promoting the interests of our country and its people.
The region will continue to highlight its unique strengths and advantages, demonstrating its suitability as the headquarters of the proposed new state. Confidence is built around the efforts that will ultimately yield positive results, and the people look forward to the day when Oke-Ogun will take its rightful place as the capital of the new state.
The people of Oke-Ogun are eager to take their rightful place in the Nigerian polity. We are confident that the creation of a new state with Oke-Ogun as its headquarters will be a dream come true for our people. With its rich cultural heritage, strategic location, and vast economic potential, Oke-Ogun is poised to become a major player in the Nigerian federation.