From Jude Owuamanam
The Chairman of the Steering Committee for the Movement of the Creation of Kainji State, Ambassador Ahmed Musa Ibeto, has said that the creation of the state from the current Niger and Kebbi States will address the recurring insecurity in the two states.
Ibeto, who spoke at the zonal public hearing for the North Central zone constitutional review organised by the Senate, said their demands for the state creation are being made by three emirates—two from Niger State, which are Kontagora and Borgu, and one from Kebbi State, which is Zuru Emirate.
He pointed out that because of the land mass, some places could not be effectively governed, and hence the increasing spate of insecurity, but that if those places are broken into another unit, which is their state creation from there, it would be effectively governed.
According to him, they have all it takes to become a state, and that the land mass alone in Niger State is more than some regions and some 10 states in the country put together, adding that it could take two days to journey from one part of the state to the other via road.
“Over time, due to the implementation of colonial administrative changes from 1902 to 1994, our places were divided. Some were placed in different provinces, and when states were created in 1976, the same division occurred.
“Given the historical bonds of affinity, we believe that these regions should come together to demand the creation of a new state. Our brothers and sisters are supporting this cause because, as it stands, Niger State is the largest state in Nigeria by landmass—it covers 10% of the country’s total area.
“If justice, equity, and fairness are to prevail, there is a need for Niger State to be split into additional states.
“With a population of 3.4 million people, our demand is justified. By current standards, this population surpasses that of more than 10 states in Nigeria. In terms of land area, Niger State covers 47,395 square kilometres.
“For comparison, one local government area in Niger is larger than the entire Southeast region of Nigeria. We believe this is a justifiable demand, and we trust the Senate will recommend the creation of a new state in line with these considerations.
“And with the ongoing security issue in Niger State, we believe that breaking the state into smaller units will help address the insecurity problem. That is an absolute fact, and that’s precisely why we are advocating for state creation.
“In Niger State, you can travel for a full day or even two before reaching the farthest points. For example, travelling from Madala, which is on the edge of Suleja, to Babana, a border town with the Republic of Benin, takes two days.
“This vast landmass means there are many ungoverned spaces, which contribute to the insecurity. By creating a new state, we believe these areas will become more accessible and controlled. It will prevent bandits from having free rein in regions that are currently underserved in terms of governance.
“So, we’re confident that creating new states will improve security, among other benefits,” he said.
He thanked Professor Jerry Gana, who, though presenting their own concern from Niger State for the creation of Edu State, also acknowledged the legitimacy of the creation of Kainji State, which he (Gana) said is valid.