The conversation around the creation of a new Coastal State in Nigeria has quietly but steadily advanced over the years. What was once a grassroots agitation has now crossed the critical threshold of public discourse and legislative endorsement. With 64 senators reportedly signing in support of the bill, it is clear that the idea has gained substantial national momentum and awaits formal ratification.
This development is not only significant for the people of the proposed coastal axis but also for Nigeria’s federal structure, which continues to evolve in response to demographic, economic and political realities.
WHY OKITIPUPA SHOULD BE THE HEADQUARTERS
As talks of state creation mature into legislative action, the inevitable question is: where should the capital of the new Coastal State be?
Okitipupa stands out naturally not by sentiment, but by merit.
Reasons why Okitipupa is best suited:
Historical Administrative Status
Okitipupa was the headquarters of the old Okitipupa Division under the defunct Western Region and has maintained its administrative relevance through successive restructurings.
Strategic Geographical Location
Centrally positioned among the potential local governments of the new Coastal State, making it accessible to neighbouring Ilaje, Ese-Odo, Irele and Odigbo.
Economic Potentials
Home to notable industries like Okitipupa Oil Palm Plc, the Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology and a growing private sector, Okitipupa has the foundational infrastructure for state capital responsibilities.
Cultural and Demographic Significance
As a hub of Ikale heritage and a melting pot for surrounding communities, Okitipupa symbolises the unity and shared aspirations of the coastal people.
WHICH LOCAL GOVERNMENT SHOULD PRODUCE THE FIRST GOVERNOR?
While the location of the state capital is one matter, leadership of the new state is another delicate subject. Understandably, the decision must reflect both justice and political wisdom.
Among the likely local governments Ilaje, Ese-Odo, Okitipupa, Irele and Odigbo — the considerations would rest on:
• Population size
• Political influence
• Contribution to the national economy, especially oil production
• Historical marginalisation or precedence
Fair Argument
It would be justifiable for the Ilaje people to produce the first governor, given their frontline position in resource contribution and the environmental burdens their communities bear due to oil exploitation. The Ilaje Nation has long clamoured for adequate political representation commensurate with its resource wealth.
Balancing Argument
Alternatively, political maturity would suggest electing a consensus candidate from a politically neutral, unifying LGA like Okitipupa, Irele or Odigbo for the first tenure, to stabilise the fledgling state and foster a sense of collective ownership among the various ethnic nationalities.
WHERE ODIGBO STANDS IN THE EQUATION
Odigbo Local Government deserves particular mention in this emerging structure. It is geographically adjacent to these coastal local governments and shares strong socio-economic and cultural ties with the Ikale and Ilaje-speaking communities.
Its importance includes:
• A Large Population
One of the most populous LGAs in Ondo State
• Economic Significance
Host to several industries, with Ore town as a major commercial and transit hub connecting the coastal axis to other regions
• Cultural Affiliation
Many of its communities share ancestral ties with the Ikale and Ilaje clans, strengthening its rightful inclusion in the proposed state
Odigbo’s presence not only enhances the viability of the new state but also guarantees a fair spread in leadership and political appointments.
FINAL THOUGHT
The imminent creation of Coastal State marks a defining chapter in Nigeria’s nation-building project. The decision to locate the headquarters in Okitipupa is historically sound, geographically strategic and economically sensible. As for who becomes the pioneer governor, justice demands Ilaje is considered, but wisdom may recommend a stabilising, consensus candidate from Okitipupa, Irele or Odigbo.
At the end of the day, what Coastal State needs is equity, inclusivity and competent leadership to lay the solid foundation for sustainable growth.
Comr. Solomon Oke
Convener, Youngstar Initiatives.
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