Senate Passes First Reading of Bill to Create Ijebu State

A bill seeking the creation of Ijebu State from Ogun State has passed its first reading in the Senate, marking the initial step in the legislative process.

The bill, titled the “Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (Sixth Alteration) Bill, 2024 (Creation of Ijebu State),” was sponsored by Senator Gbenga Daniel, representing Ogun East Senatorial District.

During Tuesday’s plenary session, Senate Majority Leader Michael Opeyemi Bamidele of the All Progressives Congress (APC) formally introduced the proposal.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio facilitated the process, allowing the bill to proceed to its first reading.

Legislative Process and Advocacy

The bill will now advance to subsequent readings, where it will undergo detailed deliberations, evaluations, and potential amendments before any final approval can be made.

The push for Ijebu State has gained momentum as part of broader calls for administrative decentralization in Nigeria.

Proponents of the bill argue that the creation of new states would improve governance, boost economic development, and enhance political representation for underserved regions.

Broader Implications

If approved, Ijebu State would become an independent entity with its own governance structures, distinct from Ogun State.

The development is expected to spark nationwide debates on the implications of state creation, particularly in addressing the challenges of federalism, regional equity, and resource allocation in Nigeria.

Infostride News Reports that the proposal reflects growing demands for restructuring to address perceived imbalances in governance and representation across the country.