Two movements proposing the creation of Okura and Kainji state have submitted Memoranda to the House of Representatives Committee on Constitution Review.
They explained that the proposed states would be viable and sustainable if created, having met constitutional requirements.
The movements submitted their memos at the weekend when the committee held public hearing at North Central Zone A in Minna, Niger state capital.
While Dr. Yakubu Ugwalawo submitted the memorandum for the creation of Okura state from the existing Kogi state, Ambassador Ahmed Ibeto submitted that of the movement for the creation of Kainji state from present Niger and Kebbi states.
Ugwalawo explained that Okura comprises of nine local government areas from Kogi East adding that “there is a consequential amendment on 14 local government areas created by the Kogi state house of Assembly”.
Highlighting the importance of the creation of Okura state, Dr. Ugwalawo explained, “for fairness and justice to the area there is the need to consider its population of over 3 million people, 14,000 square kilometers of land and economic viability and long history of the area.”
Making case for the creation of Kainji state, Ambassador Ahmed
explained that all the constitutional requirements for the creation the state have been met.
He explained that the state when created will comprise of the three emirates of Kontagora Borgu in the present Niger state and Zuru in Kebbi state.
According to him, “Currently Kontagora has six local government areas, Zuru has four local governments while Borgu has two councils and this is potential advantage in the agitation for the creation of the Kainji state.
“Niger state is the only state that has not been split since its creation in 1976 despite its size, over 2.4 million population and occupying 47,000 square kilometers out of the current 76,363 square kilometers of Niger state.”