A heated debate over state creation erupted on Thursday during the South-South Zonal Public Hearing on the Review of the 1999 Constitution, held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. The session, chaired by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, witnessed strong and divergent opinions from stakeholders, with regional interests clashing over proposed boundary and state structure reforms.
Akpabio, who led the Senate delegation, acknowledged the sensitivities surrounding state creation and called for calm, urging delegates to approach the constitutional amendment process with unity, patriotism, and a focus on national interest. He emphasized the need for inclusive legislation that would strengthen the federation rather than deepen divisions.
“This is a moment to shape Nigeria for the better,” Akpabio said. “We must ensure that proposals—whether for state creation, local government autonomy, or state policing—are debated with objectivity, not sectional bias.”
The Uyo hearing was part of a nationwide exercise held simultaneously across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones from July 4 to 5, 2025. Key issues under consideration include restructuring, devolution of powers, resource control, judicial reforms, and electoral processes.
Akpabio reaffirmed the Senate’s commitment to ensuring that the constitutional review reflects the will of the Nigerian people and promotes peace, justice, and development across the country.
