Nigeria’s House of Representatives has condemned the proposed ceding of some parts of Edo State for the creation of Toru-Be state affirming that no individual political caucus or regional group has the authority to alter any part of a state without the stipulated constitutional process
The resolution followed a motion of urgent public importance by Omosede Igbinedion representing Ovia Northeast/Ovia Southwest federal constituency of Edo State who frowned at the proposed creation of a state in the south south geopolitical zone with areas like Ovia and Ikpoba-Okha local government areas earmarked for inclusion in the state
The lawmaker noted that the affected communities including Ughoton, Siloko, Aghamioba, Udo (Okomu), Obazuwa, Ekewan, Ikoro, Ologbo, and surrounding riverine areas are foundational to Benin Kingdom and hold deep ancestral, historical, cultural significance to Edo people
Igbinedion maintained that Benin Kingdom, which is over 1,200 years is one of the oldest and most sophisticated precolonial civilisations in Africa, globally renowned for it’s advanced political structure, urban development, military organisation, and world famous Benin bronzes, which continues to define Nigeria’s cultural heritage in global institutions.
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Igbinedion warned that any attempt to cede historically significant Edo lands constitutes a threat to the territorial integrity of the state and a violation of the cultural and ancestral rights of the people; a development she argues could lead to widespread unrest and undermine national unity.
The House in other resolutions:
Asked all stakeholders in the south south geopolitical zone to refrain from actions that threaten the unity and historical integrity of constituent states
Mandated the committee on Constitution Review, Intergovermental Affairs and state creation, to investigate the matter, uphold state boundaries, and engage relevant stakeholders to ensure transparency and equity in any future state creation discussions.
Reaffirmed the commitment of Edo People to defend their land , heritage and historical identity
(Editor: Anoyoyo Ogiagboviogie)
