House of Reps: Bill To Create New State Passes Second Reading

On Thursday, October 17, 2024, the House of Representatives took a significant step towards expanding Nigeria’s states by advancing a bill that proposes the creation of Ogoja State.

The bill, sponsored by lawmaker Godwin Offiono and three co-sponsors, passed its second reading without opposition, signaling bipartisan support.

The bill seeks to amend the 1999 Constitution to create the new state in the South-South region, aiming to address demands for equitable representation and local governance. 

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Offiono emphasized the bill’s focus on fairness, stating, “The essence of this bill is rested on equity.”

With the successful second reading, the proposal has been forwarded to the House Committee on Constitution Review for further evaluation. 

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For many in the South-South region, this development marks a crucial step toward achieving regional equity.

The momentum behind the bill suggests growing support, as the House edges closer to a potential landmark decision on state creation.