Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Dr Monday Ubani, has commended Hon. Obi Aguocha, member representing Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency, for sponsoring a bill seeking the creation of Ikwuano North and Ikwuano South Local Government Areas from the present Ikwuano LGA in Abia State.
Ubani, however, urged the lawmaker to work closely with Governor Alex Otti to ensure that the process complies fully with the provisions of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
The bill, which recently passed its First Reading at the House of Representatives, has been widely celebrated by Ikwuano indigenes both at home and abroad, who say the current local government is too large to be effectively managed. Ikwuano comprises four major clans — Oloko, Oboro, Ariam, and Ibere — each with significant population and landmass capable of sustaining a full-fledged local government.
Ubani noted that the creation of an additional local government in Ikwuano was one of the major campaign promises made by both Hon. Aguocha and Governor Otti in 2023, and commended the lawmaker for taking steps to actualize that commitment through legislative means.
However, he emphasized that Section 8 of the Constitution sets out a clear procedure for creating new local governments, beginning with legislative action at the state level.
According to him, “The process must start with the Abia State House of Assembly after a formal request supported by the majority of representatives from the affected area. This should be followed by a resolution of the existing local government council and a referendum conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ascertain the wishes of the people.”
Ubani explained that once the referendum is approved, the House of Assembly can pass a bill for the new local government and forward it to the governor for assent. But the process remains incomplete until the National Assembly amends the Constitution to include the new council areas in the First Schedule.
He cited the landmark Supreme Court judgment in Attorney-General of Lagos State v. Attorney-General of the Federation (2003), which affirmed that while states can create local government development areas, such creations remain inchoate until constitutionally recognized by the National Assembly.
“The initiative by Hon. Aguocha is patriotic and commendable, but to ensure success, he must work hand in hand with Governor Otti,” Ubani advised. “An Executive Bill from the governor, backed by the Abia State House of Assembly, will make the process constitutionally sound. Thereafter, the National Assembly can handle the amendment for recognition.”
Ubani expressed optimism that Governor Otti, known for keeping his campaign promises, will support the effort, noting that the creation of Ikwuano North and Ikwuano South LGAs would bring governance closer to the people, promote balanced development, and deepen democratic participation.
“The dream of splitting Ikwuano is both constitutionally feasible and socially desirable. It will enhance local administration and accelerate growth for all communities,” he said.
Residents have also expressed hope that with sustained collaboration between the federal and state representatives, the long-awaited division of Ikwuano will soon become a reality.
