Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has disclosed how Ijebu leaders vigorously lobbied the late Head of State, General Murtala Mohammed, to make Sagamu the capital of Ogun State instead of Abeokuta.
Speaking nearly five decades after the state’s creation, Obasanjo recounted the intense political maneuvering that took place behind closed doors before the final decision was made in February 1976.
Ijebu Leaders’ Argument: “Abeokuta Lacks Land”
At the induction ceremony and gala night of the Egba Legacy Network, held at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library in Abeokuta, Obasanjo gave a firsthand account of the power struggle that played out.
According to him, Ijebu elders presented a strong case against Abeokuta, arguing that it lacked sufficient land for expansion. They proposed Sagamu as a more viable alternative.
“When we wanted to establish Ogun State, our brothers from Ijebu did their exercise very well,” Obasanjo said. “They campaigned against making Abeokuta the state capital, saying we don’t have land. They lobbied General Murtala Mohammed to name Sagamu as the capital instead.”
Obasanjo explained that before 1932, the region was referred to as Abeokuta Province, encompassing both Egba and Ijebu territories. However, when Ijebu Province was created, its administrative base was initially separate.
Obasanjo vs. Murtala: A Heated Exchange
Obasanjo revealed that General Murtala Mohammed had initially agreed with the Ijebu leaders’ proposition.
“My boss, Murtala Mohammed, had been briefed and was inclined to make Sagamu the state capital. He told me, ‘We are going that way.’ But I responded, ‘Since we are going to have Kano State, then Rago should be the capital of Kano,’” Obasanjo recounted.
His remark, meant to highlight the absurdity of changing a historical capital, angered Murtala.
“He attacked me, saying, ‘How dare you?’ And I replied, ‘How dare you too?’ That was how the discussion ended,” Obasanjo said, drawing laughter from the audience.
Despite the intense lobbying, Abeokuta eventually retained its status as the state capital, cementing its political and historical significance.
Preserving Egba’s Legacy
Obasanjo, an Egba son himself, used the occasion to emphasize the importance of preserving the rich history of Abeokuta. He urged the Egba Legacy Network to document the contributions of prominent Egba figures and integrate their stories into tourism development.
“Abeokuta’s proximity to Lagos is an advantage,” he said. “This city can become a major tourism destination if we properly preserve and promote its heritage.”
Egba Legacy Network’s Vision for Abeokuta
The event also featured Chief Lai Labode Jnr, the Osi Apagunpote of Egbaland and Chairman of the Egba Legacy Network. He urged newly inducted members to contribute to the beautification and development of Abeokuta.
“Our goal is to preserve the culture, traditions, and history of Egbaland while celebrating both past and present heroes,” Labode said.
One of the group’s ambitious projects is the Egba History and Heritage Area, which will feature statues of legendary Egba personalities, including:
- Sir Adetokunbo Ademola
- Prof. Saburi Biobaku
- Madam Efunroye Tinubu
- Fela Anikulapo Kuti
- Chief Beko Ransome-Kuti
- Chief MKO Abiola
- Ayinla Omowura
- Chief Olusegun Obasanjo
Labode revealed that the first phase of their transformation agenda would cover Ibara GRA, Oke-Mosan-Kobape Expressway, and the Alake Palace.
Founded 18 months ago, the Egba Legacy Network consists of professionals working together to unite Egba sons and daughters globally for the socioeconomic advancement of Abeokuta.
A Legacy of Power and Politics
Obasanjo’s revelation adds another layer to the historical and political intrigues surrounding Ogun State’s formation. It underscores the intense battles that often take place behind the scenes when states are created and capitals are chosen.
While the Ijebu leaders made a strong case for Sagamu, Abeokuta’s deep-rooted historical significance ultimately prevailed. Today, it stands not just as the political capital of Ogun State but also as a beacon of Egba heritage.
As the Egba Legacy Network embarks on its mission to preserve and promote the city’s history, Obasanjo’s account serves as a reminder of the strategic negotiations that have shaped Nigeria’s political landscape.
