A bill seeking to establish a new state in Nigeria’s South-South geopolitical zone has successfully passed its second reading in the House of Representatives.
Co-sponsored by Godwin Offiono from Cross River and three other lawmakers, the legislation aims to create Ogoja State from Cross River.
The bill garnered support during a voice vote led by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, who subsequently referred it to the committee on constitutional review. This development adds to the increasing number of proposals aimed at state creation as the National Assembly undertakes amendments to the 1999 Constitution.
In January, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu indicated that the amendment process is expected to conclude by December 2025. However, creating a new state involves navigating a complex constitutional framework.
According to Section 8(1) of the Constitution, a new state can only be established with the backing of a two-thirds majority from various legislative bodies and local councils, followed by approval in a referendum.
As of now, no new states have been created since Nigeria’s return to democratic rule in 1999, making this bill a significant and challenging initiative.
