Some members of the House of Representatives are advocating for the creation of Etiti State from the South-East geopolitical zone.
The sponsors of the proposed legislation titled ‘A Bill For an Act to Alter the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, to Provide for the Creation of Etiti State out of Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu and Imo States; and for Related Matters,’ are Amobi Godwin Ogah, Miriam Onuoha, Kama Nkemkama, Clara Nnabuife and Anayo Onwuegbu.
In his lead debate, Ogah told the House that the proposed legislation, when passed into law, would address the long-standing issue of regional parity and administrative efficiency within the South-East geopolitical zone.
The lawmaker informed the House that the establishment of Etiti State was not just a matter of administrative convenience, but a step towards ensuring balanced regional development and effective governance.
“It is a response to the aspirations of the people of a very important region to this country and aligns with the principles of equity and inclusivity as enshrined in our democratic ideals and culture.
“The creation of Etiti State is a proactive step towards aligning the region with the structural realities of its other five sister regions in the country,” Ogah said.
The lawmaker insisted that is a long overdue step in the right direction to foster equitable representation, enhance governance efficiency and promote socio-economic development within the region.
He also argued that the South-East, with its rich cultural heritage and strategic economic potential, deserves a governance framework that optimally serves its diverse communities.
He added that the creation of Etiti State will facilitate more targeted development initiatives, better resource allocation and improved service delivery to the people.
“Consequential alterations in the First Schedule, Part I, which includes — carving out Isuikwuato and Umunneochi LGAs from Abia; Orumba North and Orumba South LGAs from Anambra; Ivo and Ohaozara LGAs from Ebonyi; Aninri, Awgu and Oji River LGAs from Enugu; and Okigwe and Onuimo LGAs from Imo State to form the new Etiti State; and designation of Lokpanta as the capital city of Etiti State,” he added.
While urging members of the green chamber to support the Bill, he appealed to them to remain guided by the imperative of fairness, efficiency and progress.
According to him, the creation of Etiti State represents a unique opportunity to strengthen the federal structure, empower communities and foster national unity.
Consequently, the House presided over by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas passed the bill for second reading.
The House also committed the bill to the House Special Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution for further legislative input.
