The member representing Ajaokuta Federal Constituency, Hon. Sanni Abdulraheem Egidi has disclosed that Ajaokuta Local Government Area has been excluded from the proposed Okura state.
Recall that the member representing Ankpa, Omala, and Olamaboro Federal Constituency, Abdullahi Ibrahim Ali Halims, had submitted the bill for Okura state, but had to withdraw it following various complaints, especially the inclusion of Ajaokuta.
The Halims has resubmitted the bill to the green chamber,taking note of the corrections made.
The proposed state is expected to be carved out of the present Kogi State, and the memo was addressed to Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, Deputy Speaker/Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Constitutional Review, National Assembly Complex, Abuja.
With this development, the proposed Okura State will comprise nine local government areas, including Ankpa, Bassa, Dekina, Ibaji, Idah, Igalamela/Odolu, Ofu, Olamaboro, and Omala.
Reacting to the resubmission, Hon. Egidi described the removal of Ajaokuta from the bill as a victory for democracy.
“On the floor of the National Assembly, I stood against the bill, making it clear that the inclusion of Ajaokuta in the proposed Okura State was inappropriate and against the interests of my constituents.
“To further reassure you, I released a public statement, accompanied by a video, categorically stating that Ajaokuta belongs where it has always been—within Kogi State. I emphasized that no unilateral decision could be made without due process, and I urged you all to remain calm while we navigated this critical issue together.
“Now, eight months later, we have received the resubmission of the request memorandum for the creation of Okura State. But this time, something has changed—Ajaokuta has been removed from the proposed Okura State, ensuring that it remains where it rightfully belongs. This is not just a mere administrative adjustment; it is a testament to the strength of our collective voice and the unwavering commitment we have to the future of our land.
“This is a victory—a victory for democracy, for due process, and for the unbreakable spirit of the Ebira people. It proves that when we stand together, we can shape the destiny of our people and protect the legacy of our forebears,” he said.
