Deborah Akinyosoye
Stakeholders from the North-West zone have renewed calls for the creation of new states, citing improved development, equity and security as key motivations.
The demands were presented at the North-West zonal public hearing of the Senate Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), held on Saturday and Sunday in Kano.
Proposals were made for the creation of Bayajidda and Karaduwa States from Katsina State; Kainji from parts of Kebbi and Niger; Tiga and Ghari from Kano State; Gurara and New Kaduna from Kaduna State; and Hadeja from Jigawa.
The Chairman of the Kainji State Movement, Ahmed Musa Ibeto, told the committee that the proposed state would consist of Zuru Emirate in Kebbi, and Kontagora and Borgu Emirates in Niger.
He said the emirates had long-standing administrative and historical ties dating back to the colonial era of 1902.
“When created, Kainji State will have an estimated population of 2.2 million people and cover a landmass of 36,800 square kilometres, ranking it among the 10 largest states in the country,” Ibeto said.
He added that the creation of the state would address security concerns and promote justice, equity, and fairness for the people of the region.
Also speaking, a representative of the Gurara State agitation group, Mr Mark Jacob, said their submission complied with the provisions of Section 8 of the Constitution, with all the necessary signatures from the relevant stakeholders.
He described the push as a “unanimous demand” from both the Northern and Southern zones of Kaduna State, including endorsement from the Governor and members of the State House of Assembly.
According to Jacob, Gurara has significant human and natural resources, including ginger, columbite, and other solid minerals, which could reduce the region’s reliance on federal allocations if developed.
He added that the proposed state would foster peace, economic growth, and closer governance for the people.
Similarly, proponents of Karaduwa State said the proposed entity would comprise 11 local government areas, with potential for further expansion.
They argued that the new state would harness its landmass for agricultural development while enhancing political inclusion and improving living standards.
They stated that state creation would bring governance closer to the grassroots and promote security and economic development.
The hearing was chaired by the Deputy Senate President, Sen. Barau Jibrin, who leads the constitutional review committee.
(NAN)