Proposed Bill Seeks Creation of Three New States in South-West Nigeria
February 13, 2024A significant development has emerged in the Nigerian political landscape as a bill advocating for the creation of three additional states in the South-West region has been slated for presentation in the House of Representatives.
Spearheaded by Honorable Oluwole Oke, the representative of Obokun/Oriade Federal Constituency in Osun State, the proposed legislation aims to establish the states of Oke-Ogun, Ijebu, and Ife-Ijesa within the South-West geopolitical zone.
Titled “A Bill for an Act to amend the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended),” the proposed law seeks to initiate amendments to the First Schedule, Part I of the Constitution. Specifically, it advocates for the inclusion of provisions for the creation of new states and a corresponding reduction in the number of local government areas.
The proposed bill reflects ongoing discussions surrounding the need for administrative restructuring and decentralization of power in Nigeria. Proponents argue that the creation of additional states will facilitate better governance, improve service delivery, and promote equitable development across the country.
If approved, the establishment of Oke-Ogun, Ijebu, and Ife-Ijesa states would mark a significant milestone in the socio-political evolution of the South-West region. Advocates contend that the new states would provide opportunities for local communities to participate more actively in decision-making processes and address specific developmental challenges unique to their respective areas.
However, the proposed bill is likely to spark debates and scrutiny among lawmakers and stakeholders, as questions regarding the feasibility, economic viability, and potential implications of state creation are deliberated upon.
As the legislative process unfolds, all eyes will be on the House of Representatives to assess the prospects of the proposed bill and its potential impact on the future governance and development of the South-West region and Nigeria as a whole.
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