By Emmanuel Adegbite
In a major legislative move aimed at restructuring Nigeria’s geopolitical landscape, the House of Representatives Committee on Constitution Review has proposed the creation of 31 additional states across the country. This initiative, which seeks to amend the 1999 Constitution, is driven by longstanding demands for greater political representation, administrative efficiency, and regional development.
Among the proposed states, Ibadan State stands out as one of the most prominent. Sponsored by Hon. Akeem Adeyemi and six other lawmakers, the bill advocates for the division of Oyo State into two, with Ibadan as the capital of the new state, while Oyo town would remain the capital of the existing Oyo State. This proposal reflects the growing call for administrative decentralization in the South-West region.
Similarly, Oke-Ogun, Ijebu, and Ife-Ijesa States have been proposed through a bill introduced by Hon. Oluwole Oke. The new Oke-Ogun State, with Iseyin as its capital, is expected to be carved out of Oyo State, while Ijebu State, with Ijebu-Ode as its capital, would be created from parts of Ogun State. Ife-Ijesa State, proposed with Ile-Ife as its capital, aims to address the unique socio-political needs of Osun State.
In the South-East, a group of lawmakers led by Hon. Amobi Ogah has put forward a bill for the creation of Etiti State. The proposed state, with Lokpanta as its capital, would be formed from parts of Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu, and Imo states. The move is seen as an attempt to enhance governance and representation in the South-East geopolitical zone, which has long advocated for increased state creation.
The South-South region is also included in the proposed restructuring, with Hon. Godwin Offiono and his colleagues sponsoring a bill for the establishment of Ogoja State. This proposal has already passed its second reading in the House of Representatives, reflecting significant legislative support for the initiative.
Meanwhile, the quest for additional states in Oyo State continues with Hon. Olamijuwonlo Alao Akala sponsoring a bill for the creation of Ogbomoso State. This bill, like many others, has successfully progressed to the second reading stage, signaling growing political will to address regional demands.
The push for these new states highlights the increasing clamor for equitable distribution of resources, improved governance, and enhanced political participation at the grassroots level. However, the proposals must undergo extensive legislative scrutiny, including constitutional amendments, national assembly approvals, and eventual referendums before they can become reality.
As the debate continues, Nigerians await the outcome of this ambitious legislative proposal, which, if passed, could significantly alter the country’s political and administrative structure. The decision now rests with the House Committee on Constitution Review, which will assess the viability of these proposals before further legislative action is taken.
