A bill proposing the division of Oyo State into two new states has successfully passed its second reading in the House of Representatives. The initiative, sponsored by Hon. Prince Akeem Adeniyi Adeyemi—popularly known as Skimeh—received support from six additional lawmakers from Oyo.
The proposed legislation aims to establish New Oyo State, with Oyo Town designated as its capital, while the remaining portion of Oyo State would be renamed Ibadan State, with Ibadan as its capital. The bill was presented during a plenary session on Tuesday and was unanimously adopted by the members present when put to a voice vote by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas.
In line with procedural protocols, the bill has been referred to the Committee on Constitutional Review for further examination. This proposal is part of a broader discussion regarding the creation of new states within Nigeria, amid ongoing constitutional amendments expected to conclude by December 2025.
Oyo’s division bill joins a growing list of proposals currently being considered by the National Assembly, including bills for the creation of Oke-Ogun, Ijebu, and Ife-Ijesa states in the southwestern region.
The constitutional process for creating a new state is extensive and includes several legislative steps. According to Section 8(1) of the Nigerian Constitution, a new state can only be established if it garners the support of at least two-thirds of the members representing the area in both the Senate and the House of Representatives, as well as the House of Assembly in the relevant area. Additionally, the proposal must be approved in a referendum by at least two-thirds of the local population, followed by approval from a simple majority of states across the Federation.
Since Nigeria returned to democratic governance in 1999, no new state has been created, underscoring the significance and potential impact of the current proposals.
