The spokesperson of the House of Representatives, Akin Rotimi, has clarified that proposals for the creation of 31 new states are not resolutions of parliament.
During Thursday’s plenary, Benjamin Kalu, deputy speaker of the House and chairman of the Constitution Review Committee, revealed that the lower legislative chamber had received proposals for new state creations. Kalu stated that these proposals must be re-submitted in strict compliance with Section 8 of the 1999 Constitution by March 5.
Section 8 outlines the requirements for the creation of new states, which include thorough legislative and procedural processes. In response to reports suggesting that the House is actively pursuing state creation, Rotimi issued a statement calling such claims inaccurate.
“This information is inaccurate and misrepresents the legislative process,” Rotimi said.
He emphasized that all constitutional amendment proposals, including state creation, would undergo comprehensive legislative scrutiny. This includes public hearings, stakeholder engagements, and multiple levels of approval before any constitutional changes can take effect.
Rotimi further assured that the committee would “align with constitutional provisions” and only consider proposals that meet the stipulated guidelines. He reiterated the House’s commitment to a transparent and inclusive constitutional review process that represents the will of Nigerians.
