Renewed Call for Additional States Sparks Controversy in Nigeria

The recent proposal by Mr. Oluwole Oke, House of Representatives member for Obokun/Oriade Federal Constituency in Osun State, to create three new states in the South West has reignited debates on the creation of more states in Nigeria.

Some argue for development benefits, while others question the need based on available empirical records. The call has also brought attention to the perceived disparity in state representation and federal allocation, particularly in the South East, which currently has fewer states than other zones.

Oke’s proposed bill aims to create Oke-Ogun, Ijebu, and Ife-Ijesa states. However, the road to state creation involves legislative hurdles, including constitutional amendments, with Section 8 (1) requiring a two-thirds majority in both the Senate and House of Representatives, as well as the relevant state House of Assembly.

While proponents emphasize justice and equity, critics argue that the focus should be on revisiting the 2014 National Conference report, which recommended creating additional states across all zones.

The South East, in particular, feels underrepresented, and some suggest granting the region at least one more state. The National Publicity Secretary of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Dr. Alex Ogbonnia, stressed the importance of true federalism to address concerns beyond state creation.

Other voices, like Dr. Pogu Bitrus of the Middle Belt Forum, advocate revisiting the 2014 confab report as a comprehensive solution to various regional concerns.

However, legal and public affairs analyst Innocent Anayo highlights the challenges of state creation, emphasizing the need for viability and economic sustainability.

Amid the debates, concerns arise about the overall viability of states in Nigeria, with less than 30% considered economically sustainable. Some argue that a focus on national unity and survival should precede parochial agitations for more states.