House of Reps Clarifies Reports on State Creation Proposals
The House of Representatives has debunked reports suggesting that it is actively pushing for the creation of new states, clarifying that recent proposals are not resolutions of the parliament.
Akin Rotimi, spokesperson of the House, emphasized on Friday that while the chamber has received proposals for the creation of 31 new states, this does not imply that lawmakers have decided to approve them.
The clarification follows remarks made by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, who, during a plenary session on Thursday, noted that submissions for new states must adhere to Section 8 of the 1999 Constitution and be resubmitted no later than March 5. This section outlines the strict requirements that must be met before a new state can be considered.
In his statement, Rotimi cautioned against misinformation, stating that reports suggesting the House is moving to create states are misleading and do not accurately reflect the legislative process.
“For the avoidance of doubt, as with all constitutional amendment proposals, these submissions will undergo thorough legislative scrutiny, including public hearings, stakeholder engagements, and multiple levels of approval before any constitutional changes can be effected,” he said.
He further assured that the Constitution Review Committee, chaired by Kalu, will evaluate only those proposals that fully comply with the constitutional provisions.
