The House of Representatives has extended the deadline for submitting memoranda on the creation of new states and local governments. The new deadline is now set for March 26, 2025.
A statement released by House spokesperson Akin Rotimi explained that the decision came after several requests from the public. Many individuals and groups had asked for more time to refine and resubmit their proposals to ensure they meet the legal requirements outlined in Section 8 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
Earlier, on February 7, 2025, the House Committee on Constitution Review revealed that it had received proposals for the creation of 31 new states. However, none of these proposals met the necessary constitutional requirements.
For any proposal to be considered, it must have the backing of at least a two-thirds majority of elected representatives from the affected area. This includes members of the Senate, House of Representatives, state House of Assembly, and local government councils.
Similarly, for new local governments to be approved, the state House of Assembly must vote on the proposal, and the results of a referendum must be forwarded to the National Assembly for further legislative action.
