Despite significant constitutional challenges, advocates for the creation of new states in Nigeria are undeterred, leading to a surge in demands and bills in the National Assembly.
Nigeria’s history of state creation dates back to 1967 when Gen. Yakubu Gowon created 12 states from the existing four regions.
Successive military rulers further increased the number of states to 36 by 1996.
However, no new states have been created under civilian rule since 1999, largely due to the stringent requirements of the 1999 Constitution.
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Section 8(1) of the Constitution outlines a complex process for creating new states, involving a series of approvals and referendums.
Despite these hurdles, there are at least nine requests for state creation in the National Assembly.
Notable among them is a bill for the creation of Etiti State, which has passed the second reading in the House of Representatives.
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Other proposed states include Okura from Kogi State, Orlu from Imo State, Oke-Ogun from Oyo State, and three states in the South West proposed by Hon. Oluwole Oke.
In the Senate, bills for the creation of Adada State from Enugu State and Anioma State from Delta State have passed the first reading.
The push for state creation is also supported by socio-cultural groups like Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, which has threatened legal action for the creation of an additional state in the South East.
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Proponents argue that new states will promote development, economic prosperity, and equity.
Hon. Ogah of Abia, lead sponsor for Etiti State, asserts that it would ensure balanced regional development and effective governance. Senator Nwoko, advocating for Anioma State, cites the region’s oil and gas resources and significant human capital.
However, experts and civil society leaders question the economic viability of new states. Dr. Vincent Terna Tavershima from Federal University Gombe and Samson Itodo of Yiaga Africa argue for focusing on true federalism and making existing states more functional before creating new ones.
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They emphasize the need for regions like the South East to achieve parity with others in terms of state numbers but stress the importance of economic sustainability.
In the South East, the proposed creation of Adada State from Enugu State enjoys significant support.
Promoters highlight its historical, cultural, and widespread acceptance.
The bill for Adada State has passed the first reading in the Senate, and its advocates argue it is the most qualified for creation based on past recommendations and the need for equity and fairness.
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In contrast, the proposals for Orlu, Etiti, and Anioma states face opposition from various quarters.
The Ohanaeze Youth Council supports Anioma but opposes Orlu and Etiti, while Ndokwa and Ukwuani communities in Delta North reject the inclusion of Anioma in the South East.
As the debate continues, the constitutional challenges remain a significant barrier, but the promoters of new states remain optimistic about achieving their goals.
