Emmanuel Ochayi
Nigerian lawmakers have proposed the creation of 31 new states across the country, a move that could reshape the nation’s political structure. The proposal was presented by the House of Representatives Committee on Constitution Review during a plenary session on Thursday.
Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, who presided over the session, read the letter containing the committee’s recommendations. The proposal seeks to create new states across the six geopolitical zones, with six states in the North Central, four in the North East, five in the North West, five in the South East, four in the South-South, and seven in the South West.
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Among the proposed states are Okun, Okura, and Confluence from Kogi; Benue Ala and Apa from Benue; and FCT State. Others include Amana from Adamawa, Katagum from Bauchi, and Savannah from Borno. The committee also recommended Muri from Taraba, New Kaduna and Gurara from Kaduna, and Tiga and Ari from Kano. Additional states proposed include Kainji from Kebbi, Etiti and Orashi in the South East, Adada from Enugu, Orlu and Aba from the South East, Ogoja from Cross River, Warri from Delta, and Ori and Obolo from Rivers.
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In the South West, the proposed states include Torumbe from Ondo, Ibadan from Oyo, Lagoon from Lagos, Ijebu from Ogun, and Oke Ogun/Ijesha from Oyo/Ogun/Osun States.
The move by the lawmakers is expected to undergo strict constitutional review. Section 8(1) of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, outlines the process for state creation. The requirements include a request supported by at least a two-thirds majority of representatives from the Senate, House of Representatives, State Houses of Assembly, and Local Government Councils in the affected areas.
Kalu Emphasises Constitutional Compliance
Kalu directed that all proposals must be resubmitted in line with constitutional provisions before further consideration. He provided specific instructions for the submission process.
“Submit three hard copies of the full proposal of the memoranda to the Secretariat of the Committee at Room H331, House of Representatives, White House, National Assembly Complex, Abuja,” Kalu said.
He assured that the committee would only consider proposals that adhere strictly to the guidelines. “The process must be transparent and in line with the Constitution. Any submission that does not meet the required criteria will not be considered,” he stated.
Implications of the Proposal
The proposal by the lawmakers has sparked discussions across the country, with some stakeholders expressing concerns over feasibility, economic sustainability, and political balance. While some argue that new states will bring governance closer to the people and promote development, others believe it may lead to administrative challenges and financial burdens.
If approved, the creation of new states would be one of the most significant constitutional amendments in Nigeria’s history. The next steps include detailed assessments by the National Assembly and referendums within the affected regions.
Emmanuel Ochayi is a journalist. He is a graduate of the University of Lagos, School of first choice and the nations pride. Emmanuel is keen on exploring writing angles in different areas, including Business, climate change, politics, Education, and others.
