Northwest Stakeholders Demand More States, For Equity, Security, Development
By Abdullahi Yusuf
Stakeholders in the Northwest have called for the creation of more states in the sub-region to enhance development, security and equity in the zone.
The Agitators proposed the creation of Bayajidda and Karaduwa States from the present Katsina State, Kainji from parts of Kebbi and Niger States, Tiga and Ghari from Kano State, Gurara and new Kaduna States from Kaduna State, and Hadejia from Jigawa State.
The groups made their various submissions at the weekend before the Senate Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), chaired by the Deputy President of the Senate,Barau Jibrin, during the two-day Northwest Zonal Public Hearing held in Kano.
In his submission, the Chairman and Director- General for the creation of Kainji State, Dr. Ahmed Musa Ibeto, said the State,if created,would comprise one Emirate from Kebbi State(Zuru) and two Emirates from Niger State(Kontagora and Borgu).
Dr.Ibeto explained that based on an earlier arrangement since the colonial administration in 1902, the three Emirates were together as an administrative unit, with understanding established among them.
“When created, this state will have a population of 2.2 million people and also it will have a landmass of 36,800 square kilometers with headquarters in Kontagora. This would make it among the 10 largest states in the country,” the Director-general said.
He also pointed out that when created, Kainji State would go a long way in solving its security problems, as the people stand for justice, equity and fairness.
On his part, the Representative of the Gurara State Agitators, Barrister Mark Jacob,esq, while presenting their memos said the proposed State had all the signatures required by section 8 of the constitution.
“For the first time the entire state is united and convinced that a state be created; an agreement had been reached among stakeholders from both the northern and southern parts as well as the governor and assembly members,” Barrister Jacob explained.
He further stated that the State has a lot of manpower and resources such as ginger, columbite and other solid minerals which if fully tapped, could make it less dependent on federal grants.
He added that the creation of Gurara State would enhance peace and growth of the area and the nation in general.
In their submissions,the agitators for the creation of Karaduwa State, stated that when created, the State would have a sizeable population with a wide landmass that could be tapped for agriculture development.
They noted that the area currently consists of 11 Local Government Areas which could be increased upon the creation of the proposed Karaduwa State, and which would bring governance closer to the people, improve political participation, security and the living standard of the people of the area.