The Inside Story of How Abeokuta Became Ogun State Capital

As Ogun State marks its 50th anniversary, fresh insights have emerged about the political negotiations that led to Abeokuta being chosen as the state capital when the entity was created in 1976. According to accounts from key delegates who participated in the historic deliberations, the selection process was characterised by intense lobbying and strategic compromise amongst the various interests within the newly formed state.

Ogun State was carved out of the old Western State during the military administration of General Murtala Muhammed, with the creation announcement made on 3 February 1976. The decision on where to locate the state capital was fraught with significance, as it would determine which region would host the administrative nerve centre and the economic benefits that come with government presence.

At the time of creation, Ogun State comprised the Egba, Ijebu, Remo, Egbado, and Awori divisions, each with towns that could potentially serve as the capital. Abeokuta, the historic city of the Egba people, had the advantage of being the largest urban centre in the new state and had already established itself as a significant administrative hub during the colonial and post-colonial periods.

However, the choice was not without contention. Ijebu-Ode, the commercial powerhouse of the Ijebu division, was also a strong contender, given its economic vitality and strategic location. Other towns such as Sagamu and Ilaro also had their advocates who argued for a more centrally located capital.

According to delegates who were present at the negotiations, the eventual choice of Abeokuta was secured through a combination of its historical significance, existing infrastructure, and political pragmatism. The citys status as the headquarters of the Egba Native Authority and its role in Nigerias independence struggle gave it a symbolic importance that resonated with the military leadership.

The decision to make Abeokuta the capital was part of a broader settlement that sought to balance the interests of the various constituent groups within the new state. While the Egba division secured the capital, other divisions were assured of proportional representation in the state government and key appointments.

Fifty years on, Abeokutas status as capital has transformed the city from a historic town into a bustling modern metropolis. The city now hosts the state government secretariat, the governors office, the state House of Assembly, and numerous federal institutions. However, the development has also brought challenges, including rapid urbanisation, infrastructure strain, and ongoing debates about equity in resource distribution.

As Ogun State celebrates its golden jubilee, the story of how Abeokuta became its capital serves as a reminder of the political compromises that shaped Nigerias federal structure and the enduring significance of those early decisions on contemporary governance.