- The committee has extended the submission deadline to 5 March 2025, allowing applicants additional time to meet the necessary provisions
The Nigerian House of Representatives’ Constitution Review Committee has disclosed that none of the 31 proposals submitted for the creation of new states have met the constitutional requirements.
Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, who also serves as the committee’s chairman, made this announcement during a two-day retreat in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State.
Kalu revealed that the parliament has received over 200 bills seeking amendments to the 1999 Constitution, reflecting a collective commitment to refining governance in Nigeria. These bills address a wide range of issues, including federal structure and power devolution, local government autonomy, public revenue, fiscal federation, revenue allocation, and electoral reforms.
Regarding the state creation proposals, Kalu noted that none fulfilled the constitutional stipulations outlined in Section 8, subsections 1 to 3, of the 1999 Constitution. In response, the committee has extended the submission deadline to 5 March 2025, allowing applicants additional time to meet the necessary provisions.
The Deputy Speaker emphasized the importance of adhering to constitutional procedures, stating that the parliament remains committed to supporting efforts aligned with these provisions. He urged proponents of new states to ensure their applications comply fully with the stipulated guidelines to facilitate consideration.
This development underscores the complexities involved in altering Nigeria’s administrative and political landscape, highlighting the rigorous processes required for constitutional amendments and state creation.
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